National Suicide Prevention Month
National Suicide Prevention Month is recognized every year in the month of September staring from September 1.
During this whole month, communities, organizations, and individuals across the United States come together to address the cause.
Groups such as National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), and many other mental health organizations support the observance to normalize the conversation around mental health.
National Suicide Prevention Month was established to extend the awareness of World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10 and National Suicide Week on September 7. However, all of these contribute to the same cause.
Origin of National Suicide Prevention Month
The roots of National Suicide Prevention Month goes back to the larger landscape of the mental health initiative in the United States.
National Suicide Prevention Month aims to shine spotlight on the nationwide difficulties faced by the population.
This simple yet effective idea of dedicating a whole month to encourage and support survivors, those who lost their lives, and their families has shown great results.
Ever since its inception, the month has developed into a national movement with major sectors such as education, healthcare, workplaces, participating in the movement.
The Purple And Blue Ribbon
The symbol of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month is a purple and blue ribbon and carries immense meaning.
Purple stands for empathy, compassion, and remembrance and honors the people who lost their lives to suicide while providing support to survivors and of those who affected.
It also highlights emotional sensitivity and the significance of empathy and understanding towards those struggling with mental health.
Blue stands for healing, hope and advocacy that encourages trust, and open discussions surrounding the stigma to raise awareness and educate the masses about the helpful resources.
This ribbon is also another sign that says every life matters and through love and support, we can help people get the needed support.
How to Participate in National Suicide Prevention Month
There are endless ways to get involved in different ways, be it by joining campaigns, spreading awareness online or by finally taking the required help that you have been meaning to.
You can help others by helping yourself first and sharing the experience with those affected. If you are fortunately in a better place mentally, then connect with people and check in on your loved ones.
There are several mental health groups that carry campaigns throughout the month. You can sign up for volunteering.
Share verified information, uplifting messages, and personal experiences on social media using official hashtags like #SuicidePrevention or #BeThe1To.
National Suicide Prevention Month reminds us that even the tiniest effort could make the largest impact and encourage someone to reach out for help.
This month also emphasizes the urgent requirement for better mental health practices and care that is more affordable and accessible.
Read World Suicide Prevention Day to know more about the movement.
