As a company that cares, at TherapyWorks we believe mental health support is critical for everyone, especially during life’s most difficult moments. September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness, share resources, and remind our community that no one has to face their struggles alone. If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide, help is available, and there are ways to find hope and healing.
Understanding the Importance of Suicide Prevention
Suicide can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or circumstances. It’s important to understand that feeling hopeless, trapped, or overwhelmed is not a permanent state. Suicide if preventable, and there are professionals, organizations, and support systems ready to help.
Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, knowing where to turn can save lives.
Immediate Resources
If you are in immediate need or know someone who is, please reach out to one of these resources right away:
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call or text 988 to connect with trained counselors who can provide immediate emotional support and connect you to resources.
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor via text, available 24/7.
- Emergency Services: If someone’s life is at risk, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
How to Help Someone in Crisis
Supporting a loved one through a mental health crisis can be difficult, but it’s important to act. Here are some ways to help:
- Listen Without Judgment: Create a safe space for the person to express their feelings. Avoid trying to fix their problems or minimize their pain.
- Encourage Professional Help: Suggest that they speak to a therapist or counselor and offer to help them find the right resources.
- Stay Connected: Follow up regularly and show ongoing care and concern. Let them know you are there for them, even if they are not ready to talk.
- Know the Warning Signs: Sudden changes in behavior, withdrawal from loved ones, talking about death, giving away possessions, or showing extreme mood swings may indicate that someone is struggling.
Professional Support
Therapy can be a life-changing resource for those dealing with thoughts of suicide. Working with a trained therapist provides a safe environment to explore difficult emotions, develop coping strategies, and rebuild hope. Our practice offers compassionate, confidential support for anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts, and we are here to help you take that first step toward healing.
We understand that reaching out for help can feel overwhelming, but we want to remind you that asking for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. You don’t have to face your struggles alone, and there is help available—whether it’s from our practice, a crisis line, or a trusted friend or family member.
Additional Suicide Prevention Resources
Here are some additional organizations and resources that offer support for those struggling with suicidal thoughts:
- The Depression Project: The Depression Project was started to help people with depression better understand what they’re going through, and feel less isolated, alone and misunderstood as well as help people who’ve never experienced depression before to better understand the illness, and know how to support their loved ones through it.
- The Trevor Project: Specializing in crisis intervention for LGBTQ+ youth. Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678678.
- Veterans Crisis Line: Veterans can call 988 and press 1 or text 838255 for support tailored to their unique needs.
- NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness): Offers free support groups, educational programs, and information. Visit nami.org for more.
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: Provides education, advocacy, and support. Visit afsp.org for more resources.
You Are Not Alone
If you’re reading this and feeling overwhelmed, please know there is hope. Life can feel unbearably hard at times, but moments of connection, support, and healing are possible. We’re here to help you navigate those dark times and guide you toward brighter days.
At TherapyWorks, we’re on a mission to help people when it matters most – because when you feel better, you live better.
Since 2009, everything we do is in support of our community and people like you. With three convenient locations in Downtown Los Gatos, Scotts Valley, and Capitola, TherapyWorks is your local counseling practice for trusted mental healthcare – We live here. We work here. We help here.
As a company that cares, we’re committed to therapy that works – for kids, teens, and adults. Whether you’re facing everyday emotions, overwhelming stress, or life’s unexpected – you’re in the right place. Through clinical best practices and proven expertise, our therapists are dedicated to professional excellence and confident care.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, don’t wait. Reach out to a professional, call 988, or text 741741 for help today.