Please read with discretion.

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. Suicide, for a long time now, has been a big issue across the world. It is important to be informed on suicide and mental health, as anyone could be struggling right now, without anyone knowing. The World Health Organization states, “Suicide is the third leading cause of death among 15-29 year-olds.” In addition, it is theorized that for every suicide, there are 20 attempted suicides. Every year, over 726,000 people commit suicide.

In an anonymous survey of Bob Jones students, around 54% of students said that they’ve struggled with their mental health in some way, and in another question, it is revealed that around 60% of surveyed students have struggled with suicidal thoughts, ideation, and/or have lost family and friends to suicide.

Suicide can be prevented, and that is why National Suicide Prevention Month is so crucial. It brings awareness to the issue and helps educate the population about mental health and prevention methods. Other times, it is simply a good reminder to care for loved ones.

As a society, however, the topic of mental health and suicide is taboo. To move forward as a whole and improve, it is necessary to understand that mental health is just as important as physical health. Even if a disease is not visible, that doesn’t mean it is not there. This also applies to mental health, as sometimes the struggle is invisible.

Many people live their daily lives not realizing that what they go through each day is not normal. Even then, if they recognize that something is wrong, many people avoid the issue or do not seek help. Others will take on unhealthy coping mechanisms that can further deteriorate or worsen their mental health.

Common warning signs of suicide, provided by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, include the following: 

• Talking about or making plans for suicide 
• Expressing hopelessness for the future 
• Acting recklessly 
• Severe mental or emotional distress 
• Physical changes (such as weight loss or weight gain) 
• Changes in sleep (insomnia or hypersomnia)
• An increase in substance abuse
• Withdrawing 
• Mood swings

If you have family, friends, or people you care about, please learn the warning signs of suicide, signs of poor mental health, and suicide prevention, as listed by the SAMHSA.

As a final PSA, don’t let yourself be one of the people who “hadn’t seen the signs,” and if you will, please keep yourself safe. You matter.

SUICIDE HOTLINE: TEXT OR CALL 988