September is Suicide Prevention Month. During this month, we take the time to spread awareness for those that we’ve lost due to suicide, and for those who survived and are still here. It’s also important to educate yourselves on the warning signs. Remember to always check up on your loved ones and let them know that help is always available.

Suicide was the second leading cause of death for ages 10-14 in 2024. Teen suicide has become a bigger issue in recent years. The reason for this is most likely depression, anxiety, and bullying for most cases. The Majority of teens are scared to speak up and ask for help. That’s why it is so important to educate yourself and everyone around you.

When it comes to preventing suicide, the people that teens care about most play the biggest role in this. Simple things like checking up on them and asking how they feel can help them. There could be warning signs like not eating, avoiding friends, skipping school, or even distancing themselves from everyone and everything. Building a safe and reliable environment may help somebody in taking their first step to reach out for help.

There’s resources available to help. There’s The 988 Suicide Lifeline, it is completely free and very helpful to those in need. At Santaluces Community High School there’s counseling available for everyone. If you don’t feel comfortable talking to the counselors, you can always find a trusted adult to talk to. Asking for help does not make anyone weak.

Let Suicide Prevention Month be a reminder that mental health is important. No one should have to go through this alone, remember to share the resources with anyone struggling. Always support all your loved ones and those around you, remind them that their life matters. You can save a life by simply listening and caring.