You’re Not Alone: Suicide Prevention Awareness and How to Support a Friend
- apeak1
- Sep 10
- 3 min read
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, but suicide touches lives year-round. For those who are struggling — or love someone who is — knowing what to say, what to do, and where to turn can feel overwhelming.
At Allied Behavioral Health Solutions (ABHS), we believe that every life matters, and that it’s okay to ask for help — for yourself or someone you care about.
Let’s explore how to recognize warning signs, how to support a friend in crisis, and how to reach out for professional support. Whether you're navigating grief, postpartum struggles, mental health concerns, or simply feel unsure what to do next, you are not alone — and help is available.
Knowing the Signs: When Is It More Than Just a Hard Day?
Everyone experiences sadness or stress. But sometimes, those feelings grow heavier — or linger longer than we expect. Suicide risk often emerges when someone feels overwhelmed, hopeless, or disconnected. Here are signs that someone may be struggling:
Emotional or Behavioral Signs:
Talking about feeling hopeless, trapped, or like a burden
Withdrawing from friends, school, work, or activities
Dramatic mood changes or increased irritability
Increased use of alcohol or drugs
Giving away possessions or saying goodbye
Verbal Clues:
“I just can’t do this anymore.”
“Everyone would be better off without me.”
“I feel like I’m drowning.”
“I wish I could just disappear.”
If something feels off, trust your gut. It’s okay to check in, even if you’re not sure what to say.
How to Support a Friend or Loved One
You don’t have to have all the answers. Simply showing up and staying present can be life-changing for someone in pain.
Here’s how to help:
Ask directly: “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?” It’s okay to say the word “suicide.” Asking does not increase risk. It opens the door to safety.
Listen without judgment: Avoid trying to fix it or offering clichés. Just be there.
Don’t keep it a secret: If someone shares suicidal thoughts, tell a trusted adult, provider, or crisis line immediately.
Encourage help-seeking: Offer to help them call a therapist, doctor, or hotline together.
When (and How) to Get Help
Suicidal thoughts are a sign that someone needs support — not a sign of weakness.
If you or someone you love is in crisis, seek help immediately:
Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Visit your local emergency room or call 911 if there is immediate danger
You don’t have to wait for a crisis to reach out. Therapy, support groups, and medication management can all help individuals navigate depression, anxiety, trauma, and overwhelming life stress.
How ABHS Can Help
At Allied Behavioral Health Solutions, we offer compassionate, evidence-informed care for individuals and families across Tennessee. We provide:
Counseling for All Ages
Therapy for children, teens, and adults
Family and caregiver support
Personalized care for at-risk youth and those with tough beginnings
In-person and telehealth services throughout Middle and East Tennessee
Specialized Programs
Perinatal Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) — for those navigating depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts during pregnancy or postpartum
Youth IOP — for teens needing more intensive, structured support
Support for grief, loss, and suicidal ideation in all ages
Psychiatric evaluations and medication support for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders
A Message of Hope - Suicide Prevention Awareness
If you or someone you love is struggling, remember: you don’t have to go through this alone.
There is no shame in needing help. And there is strength in saying, “I need support.” Whether you’re worried about a friend, navigating postpartum depression, or feeling overwhelmed yourself, healing is possible — and ABHS is here to help.
Call us today at 615.292.3661Visit www.alliedbehavior.com to request an appointment or learn more about our services.
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Clinical Review by: Alison Peak, LCSW
