September is recognized as National Suicide Prevention Month in the U.S., a time to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote help-seeking for those at risk of suicide. Join us on Sunday, September 6th, for worship when we will explore a depiction of mental health crisis and care in our scripture. Rev. Maddie gives this content note so that folks for whom this is a tender topic can make the best choices for themselves about how to engage with worship.

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More about National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month 2026:

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The month is dedicated to:

• Raising awareness of suicide as a preventable cause of death.

• Educating the public about warning signs and risk factors.

• Encouraging open conversations about mental health.

• Connecting people to crisis resources and treatment.

 

Why September?

The timing aligns with a period of heightened risk for young people returning to school, when suicide rates among 15–24-year-olds peak in September and October. This makes it a strategic time for outreach and prevention efforts.

 

Key Dates in September

• September 8 – 988 Day: A Day of Action to promote the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Lifeline.

• September 10 – World Suicide Prevention Day: A global day to remember those affected, raise awareness, and direct treatment to those in need Lifeline.

Resources

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for immediate help NAMI.

• SAMHSA Suicide Prevention Resource Center: Offers tools, guides, and crisis resources SAMHSA.

• NAMI Toolkit: Provides materials for starting conversations and promoting awareness NAMI.

 

In summary: September is a national and global call to action to address suicide prevention, with September 10 as a focal point. It’s a month for communities, churches, schools, and individuals to unite in compassion, connection, and action to save lives