Suicide Prevention Month: Changing the Narrative
Summit Counselling Services — Blog
Suicide Prevention MonthChanging the narrative — from silence and stigma to understanding and support
September is Suicide Prevention Month. Here's what it means, what the research actually says about talking openly about suicide, and how all of us can play a role.
Historically, conversations around suicide have been deeply stigmatized, silenced, and misinformed. The goal of Suicide Prevention Month is to Change the Narrative — to move, together, from a culture of silence toward one of understanding and support. That shift starts with all of us.
Why September — and why now?
As the field of psychology grew throughout the mid-twentieth century, so did the understanding of suicide and its complexities. That understanding led to a push by mental health professionals for governments to take suicide prevention seriously as a public health issue. Suicide hotlines began through independent organizations in Canada in the 1960s — yet Canada remained one of the only G7 countries without an official Suicide Prevention Plan until 2024.
As part of Canada's national suicide prevention plan, the government implemented 988 — the national suicide crisis line — provided increased funding for suicide research, and prioritized working closely with Indigenous communities to develop strategies that target those most at risk. As these policies continue to be implemented, they require awareness to succeed.
September was chosen as Suicide Prevention Month because it coincides with back-to-school and rapidly changing routines for many people — a transition period that can be particularly difficult for those already struggling.
Suicide has consistently been the second leading cause of death in adolescents and young adults from 2020–2024, with Indigenous and 2SLGBTQIA+ youth being especially at risk. Nobody is exempt from the impacts of suicide. Ensuring that fewer lives are lost — and that all communities are supported in their wellbeing — is up to all of us.
The myth that holds us back — and what the research actually says
One of the biggest misconceptions around suicide is that talking about it increases the risk. The belief that openly discussing suicide can "put the idea in someone's mind" has been disproven time and time again. Research shows the opposite: talking openly and safely about suicide is actually a protective factor.
"If you believe that someone may be considering suicide, experts suggest asking them directly. The simple question 'are you having thoughts of suicide?' can show that you care deeply — and provide a lifeline for the other person."
This can feel counterintuitive. Many of us have been taught to avoid the topic, to tiptoe around it, or to wait until someone brings it up themselves. But that silence is not protective — it is isolating. For someone who is struggling, being asked directly and compassionately can be the thing that opens the door.
The language we use matters
While open dialogue is crucial, the language we use deserves careful consideration. Two specific principles are worth keeping in mind:
Avoid details or imagery of locations or methods. Research consistently shows that this kind of specificity can cause harm. Discussing suicide in general terms — without graphic or detailed explanations — is both more helpful and safer.
Move away from "commit suicide." This phrase implies criminality or moral wrongness, rooted in the historical context that suicide was once illegal and considered a sin. Phrases like "die by suicide" or "took their own life" allow open discussion without attaching judgement or stigma to the conversation. Language shapes perception — and shifting it is something each of us can do.
Recognizing a crisis — and knowing how to help
No two people experience a mental health crisis in exactly the same way. That said, there are common warning signs worth knowing.
Warning signs of suicide
- Talking about wanting to die or feeling hopeless
- Withdrawing from friends, family, or activities
- Expressing feelings of being a burden to others
- Drastic mood changes or loss of interest in usual activities
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs
If you believe someone may be suicidal, the research-backed steps below provide a framework for responding — even if you don't feel ready or qualified. You do not need to be a mental health professional to help.
How to help someone in crisis
- Ask directlyDon't shy away from the topic. Ask clearly: "Are you having thoughts of suicide?"
- Listen without judgementAllow the person to share openly — without advice, criticism, or trying to fix it immediately. Being heard matters.
- Stay with themIf you are concerned, do not leave the person alone.
- Connect to supportEncourage them to speak with a mental health professional, call or text 988, or use another crisis resource.
- Follow upAfter the immediate moment, check in again. A follow-up message reminds the person that they are not alone and that someone is still there.
Crisis resources — in Edmonton and across Canada
If you or someone you know needs support now
In Canada, help is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988.
Summit Counselling Services also offers therapy for those experiencing thoughts of suicide. You can reach us by phone at (780) 217-4665 or by email at info@summitcs.ca.
A note on this month — and every month
We hope this September serves as a reminder that it takes all of us to create a culture of understanding and support around suicide and mental health. In this — and every — month, support is available. You are not alone.
If you're struggling, you don't have to carry it alone.
Summit Counselling Services offers therapy for individuals experiencing thoughts of suicide, depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. No referral needed. Your first consultation is free.