Suicide Prevention Month

Suicide Prevention Month, by Quinn Collins, Staff Writer

September is Suicide Prevention Month. At BonePage.com, we believe that every individual’s life holds immense value, and we care deeply about the well-being of our community. As we observe Suicide Prevention Month, it’s crucial to remind everyone that you are not alone, and there is hope even in the darkest moments. Whether you’re struggling with overwhelming feelings or simply don’t know where to turn, remember this: you are worthy of a happy life, and help is available.

Suicidal thoughts can be isolating, but it’s important to know they are more common than many people realize. It’s okay to talk about them, and reaching out for help is a brave first step. Here are some tips that can make a difference if you or someone you know is feeling suicidal.

If you may act on suicidal thoughts or are in immediate danger:

In the United States, call or text 988 or chat at 988Lifeline.org

If there is an immediate life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

In Canada, call or text 9-8-8. Elsewhere, find a verified crisis line at FindAHelpline.com

If possible, move away from anything you could use to hurt yourself and stay with someone you trust while you connect with help.

The U.S. 988 Lifeline is free, confidential, and available around the clock by phone, text, or chat. 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Suicide is a Leading Public Health Concern

Suicide continues to be a leading public health concern. According to the CDC, 48,824 people died by suicide in the United States in 2024. Millions more experienced suicidal thoughts or attempted suicide. An estimated 14.3 million adults seriously considered suicide. 4.6 million made a plan. And 2.2 million attempted suicide during the year. Although the suicide death rate declined modestly from 2023, it remains a serious public-health concern. 2025 Statistics are not yet available at the time of this article.

Special Suicide Risk Groups

Suicide can affect anyone, but its burden is not distributed equally. In 2024, the U.S. suicide rate among males was nearly four times the rate among females. American Indian and Alaska Native people and non-Hispanic White people experienced the highest suicide death rates among racial and ethnic groups. LGBTQ+ people—particularly young people—report substantially higher levels of suicidal thoughts and attempts, driven in part by rejection, discrimination, violence, and barriers to affirming care. Identity itself is not the cause; mistreatment, isolation, and inadequate support contribute to the disparity. By recognizing these unique challenges, we can help make sure that support and compassion reach those who need it most.

Suicide Prevention Tips

The National Institute of Mental Health recommends five actions:

Ask directly: “Are you thinking about suicide?”
Be there: Listen without judging, lecturing, or trying to solve everything.
Help keep them safe: Reduce access to firearms, medications, or other potentially lethal means when it can be done safely.
Help them connect: Contact 988, a mental-health professional, or a trusted support person.
Follow up: Check on them again after the immediate crisis.

Asking directly about suicide does not put the idea into someone’s mind. It is not a topic to be avoided. Speaking clearly makes it easier for a struggling person to answer honestly. Review: NIMH’s five action steps

Move to a safer place and stay connected

If you are in immediate danger, put distance between yourself and anything you could use to harm yourself. Go somewhere other people are present, contact someone you trust, and call or text 988.

Reach out for professional help

Therapists, counselors, and support groups are trained to assist you in navigating these difficult times. It’s important to remember that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Telehealth has made licensed counseling more accessible, while moderated peer-support communities and mindfulness apps may provide additional support. These services are not substitutes for emergency or crisis care. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, contact 988 or another qualified crisis service.

Suicide Crisis Resources

For those in immediate crisis, there are resources that can provide swift assistance:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Dial 988 or use the chat function on their website. Trained professionals are available 24/7 to listen and offer support. More info
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. More info
The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ support for young people): Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678678 for specialized assistance. More info
Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 and press 1 to connect with a responder specialized in supporting veterans. More info

Be Involved and Be the Difference

Suicide prevention isn’t only about seeking help when we’re struggling. It’s also about reaching out to others. A quick text, a call, or an invitation for coffee can make a world of difference to someone silently battling dark thoughts. Consider making it a habit to check in on your friends, family, and neighbors.

Many cities host walks, vigils, and community education events in September. This is a time for gaining awareness and showing support. Check for local events in your area to get more connected and less isolated.

BonePage Recognizes Suicide Prevention Month

At BonePage, we want you to know that your life matters. If you’re feeling hopeless, lost, or uncertain about the future, remember there are people ready to help. You don’t have to carry the burden alone. Reach out, because brighter days are ahead, and you deserve to see them. We are more than an adult classifieds platform. We’re a community of real, caring folks. Remember that every advertiser and every online connection is a real person. We encourage each of us to stand with and uplift each other.

Quinn Collins, Lead Research Journalist

Quinn Collins is a highly-regarded research journalist who attended journalism school at Columbia University and is based in New York City. With over two decades of experience in the field, Collins has established a reputation for his insightful coverage of political, First Amendment, and equality issues in the United States. We are pleased to have Quinn as a member of the Bonepage team.

Collins brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the subjects he covers, and his writing style is both engaging and informative. Whether it’s breaking down the latest political developments or exploring the legal complexities of First Amendment rights, Collins is dedicated to delivering accurate and impactful journalism that informs and inspires. His commitment to social justice and equality has made him a leading voice in the ongoing conversations about these important issues, and he continues to push for progress through his reporting.

Contact Quinn Collins: QuinnCollins@bonepage.com
Link to Quinn’s Bio: Quinn Collins