September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

Each September, we observe Suicide Prevention Awareness Month—a dedicated time to shine a light on a deeply important issue that too often remains in the shadows. Suicide affects individuals, families, and entire communities, leaving behind grief and unanswered questions. But it is also a preventable tragedy, and awareness is one of our most powerful tools.

This month is about more than statistics—it’s about breaking silence, encouraging open conversations, and reminding those who are struggling that they are not alone. By recognizing the signs, sharing resources, and fostering compassion, we can save lives and bring hope where it’s needed most.

At PsycHealth Services, we believe that every life has value. With the right care, support, and connection, healing is possible and hope can be restored. Our commitment is to walk alongside individuals and families with trauma-informed care and crisis support, creating a safe space for recovery and resilience.

Why Suicide Prevention Matters

Suicide is the 12th leading cause of death in the United States.
More than 48,000 people die by suicide each year in the U.S.
Millions more consider or attempt suicide—but research shows that early intervention, compassionate care, and open conversations save lives.

Suicide prevention is not just about crisis response—it’s about building a culture of connection, awareness, and resilience before someone reaches a breaking point.

The Power of Conversation and Community

One of the most impactful ways to prevent suicide is through connection. Many people who struggle with suicidal thoughts feel isolated, unseen, or like a burden to others. By opening conversations and creating safe spaces, we can counter that isolation with understanding and compassion.

Check in regularly with friends, family, and colleagues—even a simple “How are you, really?” can make a difference.
Listen without judgment. Often, the most powerful support we can give is to simply listen and validate someone’s feelings.
Share resources openly. Normalizing conversations about mental health and pointing others toward help reduces stigma and empowers people to reach out.

Prevention is not only the role of mental health professionals—it’s something we can all be a part of. Every conversation, every moment of compassion, and every effort to check in with those around us can strengthen the safety net that saves lives.

At PsycHealth Services, we encourage these conversations and provide a supportive environment where individuals and families can build resilience, find hope, and know they are not alone.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Knowing the signs can help us step in early and provide support. Warning signs may include:

Talking about wanting to die, feeling hopeless, or having no reason to live
Withdrawing from family, friends, or favorite activities
Extreme mood swings, agitation, or irritability
Changes in sleep—too much or too little
Increased use of alcohol or substances
Giving away possessions or saying goodbye

While not everyone who experiences these signs is suicidal, recognizing them is an important first step in offering support and compassion.

Our Commitment at PsycHealth Services

We reaffirm our dedication to providing trauma-informed care and crisis intervention services. We understand the complexities of emotional pain, and we work with individuals and families to create a safe, confidential space for healing.

Our approach is rooted in:
✔️ Compassionate listening
✔️ Evidence-based therapy techniques
✔️ Mindfulness and stress-reduction practices
✔️ Personalized support tailored to each person’s journey

No one should have to struggle alone.

If You or Someone You Love Is in Crisis

💙 You are not alone. Help is available right now.

Call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support 24/7.
If there is immediate danger, call 911.
You can also reach out to us directly at 708-990-8221 or visit psychealthinc.com to learn about our counseling services.

Healing is possible. Connection matters. Every step toward opening up a conversation about mental health brings us closer to ending the stigma and saving lives.

🗓️ Flexible scheduling
📍 In-person therapy in Oak Brook
💻 Secure virtual sessions across Illinois
✅ Insurance accepted: Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, Humana, Magellan, Optum, Tricare, United Healthcare, and more.*

💙 This September, let’s stand together for suicide prevention.