You Matter: Reflections for Suicide Prevention Week
Each September, Suicide Prevention Week reminds us of a simple but profound truth: you matter.
In moments of despair, it can be hard to believe this. Pain may feel overwhelming, like the only way to find relief is to escape it. But psychology teaches us something important — suicidal thoughts are not signs of weakness. They are signs of suffering, often a desperate attempt to cope with unbearable emotional pain.
The late psychologist Edwin Shneidman, one of the founders of modern suicidology, described suicide not as a wish to die, but as a wish to end pain.
Many who experience suicidal thoughts describe them as a protective mechanism — the mind searching for a way out when it feels trapped. Understanding this helps shift the narrative from judgment to compassion. Instead of asking “What’s wrong with you?” we can ask, “What pain are you carrying?”
Evidence-Based Paths Toward Healing
Research shows there are proven steps that can protect against suicide and support healing:
Connection matters.
Close relationships, social belonging, and supportive communities reduce suicide risk significantly ¹ . Checking in with a friend, joining a group, or simply sharing your story can make a profound difference.
Therapy works.
Approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and collaborative assessment and management of suicidality (CAMS) are all evidence-based treatments that reduce suicidal ideation².
Crisis planning helps.
Safety plans — practical, personalized steps created with a clinician — are more effective than “no-suicide contracts” and help people identify warning signs and coping tools in moments of crisis³.
Reducing access to lethal means saves lives.
Evidence shows that limiting access to firearms, medications, and other methods prevents suicide without increasing attempts by other means⁴.
Hope can be rebuilt.
Practices that restore meaning — such as mindfulness, creativity, or volunteering — strengthen resilience and counter feelings of hopelessness.
What You Can Do
If you’re struggling, know this: your life matters, and your pain can be eased. Talking about suicidal thoughts does not make them worse. In fact, sharing your experience can be the first step toward healing.
If you are worried about someone you love, reach out. A simple question — “I’ve noticed you seem down. Are you thinking about suicide?” — can open a door and save a life. Listening without judgment is one of the greatest gifts you can give.
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988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.): Call or text 988 for immediate support, available 24/7.
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained counselor.
NYIP Support: Our clinicians are here to walk alongside you with compassion and evidence-based care. If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out — you don’t have to carry this alone.
This Suicide Prevention Week, remember: you matter. No matter what you’re going through, there is help, there is hope, and there are people ready to listen.