Creating hope through action. That’s the theme for this World Suicide Prevention Day. We hope it’s a ray of light to the people who’ve had their lives impacted by losing someone in this way. 

On September 10 each year, the World Health Organization (WHO) and people across the globe come together to observe this ultra-important day. And it’s about more than just commemoration, too. Remember that theme? Today is all about creating hope through action. 

If you want to be a part of that, we can help point you in the right direction. 

Creating hope through action

This isn’t the first year that WHO has commemorated World Suicide Prevention Day with this theme. It’s a triennial thing — and this is the third year that will focus on creating hope through action. 

And, there’s no time like the present to do just that! 

Today’s a reminder that our actions have consequences. We normally think of that adage with a negative spin, but today, let’s refocus. Our actions can have positive — even life-saving — consequences for people ideating suicide. 

You may never know the impact a nod or a smile at a stranger on the street could have. Someone may never tell you that your moment of kindness impacted them on their darkest day. 

World Suicide Prevention Day is a reminder that prevention starts with each and every one of us. We have the opportunity to remind the people in our lives that we care about them and want them here with us. 

Looking out for your loved ones

Many people impacted by suicide will say that it came as a surprise, but some people share that they saw warning signs. In fact, some of the indicators are so common that the National Institute of Mental Health has compiled a list of the signs someone might be thinking about suicide. Those include:

• Talking about being a burden 
• Withdrawing from the people around them
• Engaging in risky behavior
• Showing new eating or sleeping habits
• Increasing their use of substances

Look out for the people in your life. If someone is growing distant, don’t take it as a slight. Check in with that person. You could literally help to save their life.   

If you’re worried about someone, talking to them is a great place to start.

And if you want to add in a fun surprise, check out our collab with Small Packages. It’s a gift box called “You Matter” loaded with goodies:

• Brownie Beast Doughp
• Baloo Lemon & Ginger Sparkling Water
• Conscious Step Smiley Face Socks
• Weighted Eye Pillow
• I'm So Happy You're Here comics
• Always Believe Journal

Whether you do this gift box or something else, find ways to show that person that you value them and want them around. 

If you’re thinking about suicide

Talk to someone about it. As soon as you can. You’re probably feeling alone — but you don’t have to be. 

Loved ones are a great place to start. If you have a therapist, absolutely share this with them. And if you’re really not sure who to turn to, dial 988 in the US. This will get you to someone at the national mental health hotline. Tell that person how you’re feeling. They’re trained in coming alongside you to provide support, care, and direction. Alternatively, you can text HOME to 741741, the national crisis text line. 

If you need therapeutic resources, our friends as SHE RECOVERS have a curated list of trusted treatment and wellness partners. The treatment centers, professional organizations, and recovery support services listed on their website are organizations that they have come to know, trust, and collaborate with over the years. SHE RECOVERS trusted resources can be found here.

This is the 20th anniversary of the establishment of World Suicide Prevention Day and the last year to honor this theme of creating hope through action. Seize it.