September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time to break the silence and come together to support one another.
Every day, individuals and families across the world are touched by the reality of suicide. In the United States, suicide is one of the leading causes of death claiming more than 49,000 lives in 2023. For people ages 10to 34, it is the second leading cause of death (CDC, 2023). This is a heartbreaking reminder of the importance of awareness, compassion, and connection.
A Bigger Picture Than Death Alone
Suicide is more than the number of lives lost. The pyramid chart from 2021, developed by the Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC), highlights how much larger the issue is than deaths alone. While nearly 46,000 people died by suicide that year, more than 1.7 million adults reported a suicide attempt, over 3.5 million made a suicide plan, and more than 12 million had serious thoughts of suicide. The chart shows that behind every death are millions of people struggling at different stages, each representing a critical opportunity to reach out, provide support, and offer hope.
Understanding Passive Suicide
It’s also important to understand that suicide risk doesn’t always look like an obvious crisis. Many people experience what’s called passive suicidal ideation, sometimes referred to as passive suicide. This means having thoughts such as “I wish I wouldn’t wake up tomorrow” or “It would be easier if I just weren’t here” without making an active plan to end one’s life. While it may appear less urgent than active suicidal intent, research emphasizes that passive ideation still represents a serious clinical risk and can progress to more active thoughts or behaviors if left unaddressed (National Library of Medicine, 2024)
The Link Between Suicide, Substance Use, and Co-Occurring Disorders
Many people who experience suicidal ideation also live with substance use disorders or co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or trauma. When multiple conditions overlap, the risk is even higher, which is why integrated treatment is essential. Addressing both mental health and substance use together helps people build resilience, rediscover hope, and change the trajectory of their lives.
Reaching Out and Building Connection
For those suffering in silence, reaching out can feel daunting. But it is a necessary step toward healing. No one should carry these thoughts alone, and there is help available. At the same time, suicide prevention is a shared responsibility. By learning to recognize the signs, listening without judgment, and showing compassion, each of us can make a life-saving difference. Even small acts like checking in on a friend, asking how someone is really doing, or simply being present can provide the connection and hope a person needs.
You Are Not Alone
If you or someone you know is at immediate risk, please call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Support is free, confidential, and available 24/7.
For those seeking help with substance use or co-occurring mental health conditions, Social Model Recovery Systems is here as a resource. Call us at 877-507-6242 to learn more about treatment options and support.
Together, we can bring hope, save lives, and strengthen our communities.
