September is National Suicide Prevention Month: Steps We Can All Take
September is National Suicide Prevention Month — a time to raise awareness, offer hope, and take meaningful steps to prevent one of the leading causes of death in the United States.
In 2023, nearly 50,000 people died by suicide nationwide — about one every 11 minutes. Millions more thought about, planned, or attempted suicide. Between 2000 and 2022, suicide rates rose by 36%, underscoring the urgent need for communities, families, faith groups, and individuals to act.
Here in New Hampshire, the challenge is even more urgent:
247 people died by suicide in 2022.
The state’s suicide rate of 16.6 per 100,000 is about 35% higher than the national average.
New Hampshire ranks 24th in the U.S. for suicide deaths.
Over the past 20 years, the state’s suicide rate has increased by more than 61%.
Suicide is the second leading cause of death for people ages 10–44. Among high school students, 25% reported having serious thoughts of suicide in the past year.
Veterans remain at higher risk: 32 New Hampshire veterans died by suicide in 2022, with a suicide rate well above the general population.
In 2023, the most common methods of suicide were firearms (55%), suffocation (24%), and poisoning or overdose (9%).
The good news: suicide can be prevented. Experts agree that everyday people — parents, neighbors, classmates, colleagues, and churches — can play a role in saving lives.
Here are five practical steps anyone can take:
1. Take Mental Health as Seriously as Physical Health
Suicidal thoughts are health warning signs, just like chest pains or stroke symptoms. They should never be ignored. If you or someone you love is thinking about suicide, reach out to a doctor, therapist, or crisis counselor. Treat it with the same urgency you would any medical emergency.
2. Learn the Warning Signs
Warning signs may include:
Talking about wanting to die or feeling hopeless
Searching for ways to self-harm
Feeling trapped, in unbearable pain, or like a burden
Withdrawing from friends or activities
Sleeping too little or too much
Reckless behavior, rage, or extreme mood swings
Increased use of alcohol or drugs
Recognizing these signs — especially if new or tied to a recent loss or crisis — is the first step in offering support.
3. Have the Hard Conversation
Asking someone if they’re thinking about suicide does not increase the risk. Instead, it opens the door to honesty and support.
When talking with someone who may be struggling:
Be direct, clear, and compassionate
Listen without judgment or lectures
Show empathy and let them share feelings
Avoid secrecy — connect them with help
Offer hope, but not empty reassurances
Sometimes all it takes is courage to ask, “Are you thinking about suicide?” followed by: “Are you safe right now?”
4. Take Action
If someone is in immediate danger, stay with them until help arrives. Remove access to lethal means like firearms or medications if possible. Support doesn’t just mean talking — it also means ensuring safety.
5. Know the Resources
You are not alone — and neither are they. Resources include:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 anytime for free, confidential support
QPR Institute training: “Question, Persuade, Refer” helps communities learn practical intervention steps