As you may already know, September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. This month is aimed to let others know that they aren’t alone in their mental health struggles. Suicidal thoughts, much like any mental issues, can affect people of all ages. This topic is often hard to talk about, but it’s something that isn’t talked about enough.

This month is important to shift the perception of mental disorders. Often, suicidal people avoid talking about their problems because they are embarrassed or feel like they have nobody to go to. However, this isn’t the case in reality. Suicidal people often have a hard time realizing that people truly do care for them.

Suicide is the 12^th leading cause of death in the United States, and it is the third leading cause for people from ages 14-24. Around this day and age mental health is becoming an issue that is becoming more and more common. Teens are experiencing an overwhelming number of expectations, making it hard to deal with it all alone. Therefore we must let others know that they are seen, they are heard, and they are loved.

In honor of this month, we wear purple and teal, to advocate for those who are struggling and as a tribute to those who didn’t make it. In 2020, Congress designated 998 to the already existing National Suicide Prevention Hotline to make it easier for those who need quick and easy access. If you are having suicidal thoughts or struggling with mental health issues, please dial this number or reach out to someone.