September is more than just another page on the calendar – it’s National Suicide Prevention Month, a time dedicated to shining a light on one of the hardest issues people face today. Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the United States, and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is the second leading cause of death for those between the ages of 10 and 34.

Chances are, either you know someone who’s struggling, or you’ve felt this way yourself. In a student survey, 42 percent said they struggle with suicidal thoughts or know someone who does. According to recent data from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), approximately 2,000 people die from suicide every day across the globe. That adds up to about 720,000 to 740,000 yearly suicides.

This is why talking about it, checking in, and knowing the warning signs is so important.

One of our counselors, Mr. Van Dorn, says that some signs to look out for are as follows:

• Pulling away from friends, family, or things they used to enjoy

• Big changes in mood, energy, sleep, or appetite

• Giving away possessions that are important to them

• Talking about feeling hopeless, trapped, or like a burden

• Reckless choices, and sometimes substance use

Students are often the first to notice when their friends or peers are depressed, harming themselves, or even considering suicide. There are still things you can do if you notice these signs, such as:

• Be real: If you notice somebody struggling, don’t just ignore it. Ask them how they’re doing. Even if it feels awkward, it matters.

• Listen first, talk second: You don’t need to have all the answers. Just being there matters much more than you think.

• Loop in support: A counselor, teacher, coach, or any trusted adult can step in and help. You are not alone in helping someone else through this.

• Know the lifelines: The suicide and crisis lifeline is 988. If you or someone you know is dealing with depression, stress, anxiety, or anything similar, help is out there—you are not alone.

Suicide Prevention Month isn’t about statistics – it’s about hope, connection, and action. The truth is, small things like checking in, sitting with someone at lunch, or sending a kind text can literally save a life. So this month, and every other month, let’s look out for each other. Because the fight against suicide starts with us – it starts with someone caring enough to reach out.