As we welcome the fall season, it’s important to recognize and embrace National/World Suicide Prevention Month. This month is a time for reflection and action, dedicated to raising awareness about suicide prevention, promoting mental well-being and encouraging open dialogue.

What is National/World Suicide Prevention Month?

Every September, we observe National/World Suicide Prevention Month to emphasize the significance of mental health and suicide prevention. It’s a call to action for individuals, communities and organizations to come together, address the factors contributing to suicide, and provide support to those in need. This month encourages everyone to engage in conversations about mental health, recognize signs of suicide risk and work collectively toward prevention.

World Suicide Prevention Day and National Suicide Prevention Week

On September 10^th, World Suicide Prevention Day marks a day of global commitment and action to prevent suicides. It’s a day dedicated to raising awareness, reducing stigma and promoting proactive steps toward preventing suicide. Additionally, National Suicide Prevention Week, observed from September 8-14, provides a concentrated period for communities and organizations to engage in prevention activities, share resources and foster support networks.

Why is National/World Suicide Prevention Month Important?

Suicide is the leading global cause of death¹, and increasing awareness is crucial to prevention. Understanding the warning signs and risk factors can save lives. This month is important because it aims to:

• Reduce stigma through open and honest conversations.
• Provide support by highlighting important resources and support systems crucial for those struggling with suicidal ideations or impacted by suicide.
• Promote mental well-being by encouraging practices that support mental health and well-being to reduce the risk of suicide.

The Intersection of Substance Use and Suicide

Substance use and suicide are deeply interconnected, with substance use disorders significantly increasing the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors⁴. Individuals with substance use disorders are at a higher risk of suicide² due to the impact of substances on mental health, including impulsivity, depression and anxiety. Many people use substances as a way to self-medicate underlying mental health issues, which can exacerbate both their substance use and suicidal ideation.

Call to Action for Substance Use Prevention Professionals

As substance use prevention professionals, our role is integral to the mission of suicide prevention. Substance use and mental health are closely linked, and our efforts can have a significant impact on reducing suicide risk. We can contribute by:

• Offering education and training sessions to recognize signs of both substance use disorders and suicide risk.
• Promoting and implementing integrated care models that address both mental health and substance use.
• Offering support and resources for individuals struggling with suicidal ideations, including information about crisis intervention services, hotlines and local support groups.
• Partnering with local mental health organizations, schools and community groups to raise awareness about the link between substance use and suicide risk.

Resources for Further Learning:

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides essential Suicide Prevention Resources, offering comprehensive guidance on preventing suicide and integrating mental health and substance use prevention. Additionally, the Central East Prevention Technology Transfer Center (CEPTTC) has created a Suicide Prevention Resource Guide, designed to support suicide prevention stakeholders and other interest groups with a thorough list of valuable suicide prevention resources. For immediate help, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available by dialing or texting 988, connecting users with trained crisis counselors who listen, offer support, and connect to necessary resources. 

By recognizing the interconnectedness of substance use and suicide, we can create more effective prevention strategies and provide comprehensive support to those in need. Let’s work together to start the conversation and promote mental well-being to prevent suicide.

References:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Facts About Suicide. https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/facts/index.html
2. International Association for Suicide Prevention. (n.d.). World Suicide Prevention Day 2024. https://www.iasp.info/wspd/
3. National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2024). Suicide Prevention Month. https://www.nami.org/get-involved/awareness-events/suicide-prevention-month-spm/
4. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2016). Substance Use and Suicide: A Nexus Requiring A Public Health Approach. https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/sma16-4935.pdf
5. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d.). Promote National Suicide Prevention Month. https://988lifeline.org/promote-national-suicide-prevention-month/