Every year, September arrives with a quiet urgency. It is National Suicide Prevention Month—a time when we come together to remember, honor, and speak out about one of the most difficult and often silent struggles: the pain that leads someone to consider ending their own life.
A 24-year-old woman, we will call her Emily, carried the weight of the world in silence. To friends, she was the kind of person who always smiled—the one who answered “I’m fine” when asked how she was. Inside, though, she felt like she was drowning in a loneliness she couldn’t put into words.
She never planned to tell anyone how bad it had gotten. Like many, she thought her pain would be a burden to others, that they wouldn’t understand. Sadly, she wasn’t alone in these thoughts. Every year, nearly 727,000 people worldwide die by suicide. In the U.S., suicide is now the second leading cause of death for people aged 10–34. These aren’t just numbers. Each one was someone’s Emily. Someone who had a favorite song, a best friend, a mother, or a dream they once chased.
What saved Emily’s story from becoming a statistic was a single conversation. One night, her best friend noticed the cracks in her smile—the way her texts had gotten shorter, how she canceled plans more often, how her laugh didn’t sound the same. Instead of letting it pass, he asked her directly, “Are you really okay? Because I care too much about you not to ask.”
Emily broke down. For the first time, the words spilled out: the hopelessness, the exhaustion, the thoughts she’d been battling alone. Her friend didn’t try to fix it or offer clichés. He just listened. Then he helped her reach out for professional support. Slowly, breath by breath, step by step, Emily discovered something she couldn’t see in her darkest moment—she wasn’t alone, after all.
Today, Emily shares her story because she wants others to know what she once didn’t: talking about suicide does not make things worse. In fact, studies show that asking someone if they’re thinking about suicide can actually reduce their risk and help them feel less alone. Connection can be life-saving.
For those who struggle in silence, know this: your story isn’t over. Even when the pain feels unbearable, even when you can’t see tomorrow, there is hope waiting in the voices of those who care. And for everyone reading, there’s something you can do today. Text a friend you’ve been meaning to check on. Call that family member who’s been quiet lately. Ask the real questions—and stay to hear the answers.
Let’s remember that prevention isn’t only about statistics or programs—it’s about people. It’s about noticing, listening, and reminding one another: You are needed. You are loved. You are not a burden. You are not alone.
If you or someone you love is struggling, please reach out. In the U.S., dial or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, immediate support. Pennock Center is also here to help. Call us at 303-655-9065 to meet with one of our skilled, compassionate therapists.