SEPTEMBER SPECIAL FEATURE
Each September, NAMI recognizes Suicide Prevention Month as a time to raise awareness, spread hope, and spark meaningful action around one of the most urgent mental health issues of our time.
Suicidal thoughts, like mental health conditions, can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. While they may be common, they should never be seen as normal. More often than not, they signal deep emotional pain or an underlying mental health concern that deserves understanding, care, and professional support.
Yet, suicide is still too often met with silence, stigma, or shame. At NAMI, we believe that silence should never be the response to someone’s pain. That’s why we’re working tirelessly to change that. Our goal is to ensure that individuals, friends, and families have access to the tools, resources, and support they need to talk openly about suicide, recognize warning signs, and seek help without fear or shame.
This September: Start a Conversation. Be the Difference.
With one conversation, asking someone how they’re really doing, and being ready to truly listen, can save lives. Because here's what we know: No one has to face this alone. Help exists. Healing is possible. And all it can take is for one person to start a conversation.
- If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 immediately.
- You can also chat with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988lifeline.org.
- Know the Warning Signs and Risk Factors of Suicide
- Being Prepared for a Crisis
- Read our guide, “Navigating a Mental Health Crisis”
- What You Need to Know About Youth Suicide
Need more information, referrals or support? Contact the NAMI HelpLine.
ECIAAA serves Champaign, Clark, Coles, Cumberland, DeWitt, Douglas, Edgar, Ford, Iroquois, Livingston, Macon, McLean, Moultrie, Piatt, Shelby and Vermilion counties.
Reach ECIAAA at (800) 888-4456 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.