09/29/2026
As September comes to a close, I don't want su***de prevention to become something we only think about for one month out of the year.
Checking in on the people around us shouldn't have an expiration date.
So what can we actually do?
Start with the people you love. Send the text. Make the phone call. Invite someone to coffee. Ask how they're doing, and then take the time to really listen to the answer. Check on the person who has been a little quieter lately, the friend who always seems to have everything together, or the person who is always taking care of everyone else.
And don't forget to check in with yourself, too.
When was the last time you stopped long enough to ask yourself how you're really doing? Not “I'm fine.” Not “I'm just tired.” But really checked in with yourself and acknowledged what you're carrying.
Give yourself permission to not be okay. Talk to someone. Ask for help. Take a break. Put down the pressure to have everything figured out.
We don't always know who is quietly struggling, and we don't always know what someone needs. But we can make sure the people around us know they don't have to carry everything alone.
You don't have to be a mental health professional to make a difference. You just have to care enough to notice, ask, listen, and stay connected.
September may be coming to an end, but the conversation doesn't have to.
Keep checking in. Keep asking the uncomfortable questions. Keep showing up for your people.
And if you need someone to check in on you, let this be your reminder that **you are one of those people worth checking on, too.**
If you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of su***de, call or text **988** to reach the Su***de & Crisis Lifeline. You don't have to face it alone.
