September was National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month; though when it comes to suicide prevention, every day matters. Being someone who has been through the struggle of suicide and depression, I know that there is always something that can be done to help. People who commit or attempt suicide may not really want to end their life. It may just seem like the only way to deal with their overwhelming emotions at the time. Suicide is devastating, but it can be prevented.

Devoting a month to highlighting these issues provides a time for people to gain a stronger knowledge of how to improve the lives of the many Americans that suffer from this mental illness. Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background. It occurs frequently but should not be considered common or normal and can hint towards more serious personal issues. In many cases people affected by suicide can feel like they have been left in the dark. They can sense shame preventing them from openly talking about their vexations.

Suicide prevention begins with understanding the warning signs and taking them seriously. Some of the many warning signs include talking about attempting suicide, talking or writing about death, seeking weapons or drugs, feelings of hopelessness, self-loathing and increased social isolation.

If you spot the warning signs in anyone, you may wonder if it’s a good idea to say anything. In such situations, it is understandable to feel uncomfortable and afraid. Just remember that any person showing these signs needs immediate help; the sooner the better.

More than twice as many people die by suicide each year than by homicide according to the National Institute of Mental Health. It is a major public health concern. A person may feel the urge to end it all and take away the despair, but suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. It doesn’t take away the pain; it just passes it to someone else. Ending a life eliminates all chances of anything ever getting better.