MEDIA RELEASE: September is Suicide Prevention Month

MEDIA RELEASE: September is Suicide Prevention Month

Last Updated: 9/26/2025

September is Suicide Prevention Month

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. Let's all do our part to support family members, friends, co-workers, and neighbors by listening and talking. We can also help by learning about warning signs, and knowing what resources are available. Let's check-in on each other, have those open conversations, and let our loved ones know it's okay to not be okay.

Stigma prevents those considering suicide from getting help. We can help reduce and eliminate mental health stigma by having open conversations, educating others, and challenging negative stereotypes. Open conversations normalize the conversation, reduce potential feelings of shame, and encourage others to share their stories. Educating others can help dispel myths and misconceptions, and provide hope. Challenging negative stereotypes can help shift public perception about mental health.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, hope and help is available.

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: A free, confidential, 24/7 lifeline for individuals experiencing mental health-related distress, including thoughts of suicide or substance use crises. Call or text 988.
• Veterans Crisis Line: Veterans and their loved ones can call or text 988 and press 1 for confidential crisis support.
• Tioga County Mental Hygiene: Mental Hygiene Crisis Services offered at the Owego clinic (1062 Route 38, Owego, NY 13827) or by calling 607-687-4000. For crisis service after 5:00pm, on weekends and holidays, call 607-687-1010 (Sheriff's Office Dispatch) to get through to the on-call mental health crisis social worker.
• Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC): Offers a database of resources, including fact sheets, presentations, and self-help worksheets. Website: sprc.org.
• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP): Provides educational programs, resources, and support for those affected by suicide. Website: afsp.org.
• Tioga County CredibleMind: A digital platform that helps people with their mental health and well-being. The platform offers various resources, such as articles, videos, podcasts, self-assessment on well-being, and localized community resources. Website: tioga.crediblemind.com.

Talking about suicide isn't harmful - silence is. One conversation can save a life. Learn more at one of the websites above.

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