Reflecting on Suicide Prevention Day: Awareness Starts with Community

Earlier this month, on Suicide Prevention Day, our team hosted a booth at Southcenter Mall to share an important message with the community: suicide prevention starts with awareness. At our activation station, we provided resources and practical tips for recognizing when someone may be struggling and how to reach out with care. Engaging with visitors throughout the day reinforced just how vital small conversations can be in making a big difference.

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Suicide is a complex and deeply personal issue, but awareness and connection are key. By understanding warning signs, listening without judgment, and offering support, each of us can contribute to prevention. Our time at Southcenter Mall reminded us that no one has to face these challenges alone—open dialogue and community support save lives.

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If you or someone you know is in crisis, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 at 988. Even a single conversation can make an impact, and together, we can build a community that notices, cares, and acts.

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Warning Signs of Suicide

If someone is talking about:

Wanting to die

Great guilt or heavy shame

Being a burden to others

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If someone is feeling:

Empty, hopeless, trapped or having no reason to live

Extremely sad, more anxious, agitated or full of rage

Unbearable emotional or physical pain

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Changing behavior, such as:

Making a plan or researching ways to die

Withdrawing from friends, saying goodbyes, giving away personal items or making a will

Taking dangerous risks such as driving extremely fast

Displaying extreme mood swings

Eating or sleeping more or less than usual

Using drugs or alcohol more often

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For more information about community trainings that support suicide awareness and understanding how to help those experiencing challenges, please visit sound.health/contact

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