Suicide Prevention Conversations
Mental Health Experts Urge Direct Conversations During National Suicide Prevention Month
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Key Points
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Chatham County’s 122 suicide deaths from 2021 through 2023 included 96 men and 26 women.
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Stephen Safer of Memorial Health said warning signs can include frequently carrying sharp objects or weapons and stockpiling medication. He also said technology and social media use may contribute to rising depression and anxiety, while healthy routines, exercise, nutrition and socialization can help reduce depression and anxiety.
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Dana Schoffelmen of Florence Crittenton Services said people do not need “perfect words” to begin a conversation; simple observations, asking how someone is doing and offering to listen can be enough to start. She emphasized that seeking help should not carry a stigma.
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For families and individuals coping with a suicide loss, Memorial Health offers guidance through its Intensive Outpatient Program and community support groups.
Mental health experts are urging people to have direct conversations about suicide during National Suicide Prevention Month, saying open dialogue can save lives. The Perry News notes that asking someone directly if they're thinking about suicide does not plant the idea — it can help identify those struggling with hopelessness, withdrawal, substance abuse, sleep changes, or talk of death. In Chatham County, Georgia, suicide claimed about 14 lives per 100,000 residents from 2021 through 2023, totaling 122 deaths overall.
Warning Signs Experts Say to Watch For
Stephen Safer of Memorial Health identifies key warning signs that someone may be in crisis. These include frequently carrying sharp objects or weapons, stockpiling medication, sudden withdrawal from friends and family, and changes in sleep patterns. The Daily Record reports that September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to recognize these dangers. Safer also notes that rising technology and social media use may contribute to increasing depression and anxiety, particularly among young people.
Starting the Conversation Without Perfect Words
Dana Schoffelmen of Florence Crittenton Services emphasizes that people don't need "perfect words" to help someone in crisis. Simple observations, asking how someone is doing, and offering to listen are enough to start a conversation that could save a life. Schoffelmen stresses that seeking help should carry no stigma — it's a sign of strength, not weakness. Friends, relatives, coworkers, and community members can all provide critical first-line support by listening without judgment and offering genuine compassion.
Protective Factors That Reduce Depression and Anxiety
Experts say healthy routines can protect mental health and prevent crisis. Exercise, proper nutrition, regular socialization, and meaningful connections all help reduce depression and anxiety. Mahoning Matters reports that Wayne County and other communities are recognizing the importance of these preventive factors during Suicide Prevention Month. Memorial Health offers Intensive Outpatient Programs and community support groups for families and individuals coping with suicide loss, providing professional guidance when crisis hits.
Crisis Resources Available 24/7
Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis can call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at any time for immediate support. Georgia residents also have access to the Georgia Crisis and Access Line. SJ-R reports that this Suicide Prevention Month reminds us that reaching out for help is an act of courage. In Chatham County, deaths included 96 men and 26 women between 2021 and 2023, underscoring the urgent need for prevention and support systems.
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