Suicide Prevention: How You Can Make a Difference

By Korey Miracle

September 9, 2025

Suicide is a critical public health concern, but there are steps we can all take to prevent it and support those in crisis. Awareness, education, and compassionate action can save lives.

Help for Yourself

Talking to someone about your thoughts and feelings can be a lifesaving step. If you are struggling, there are resources available 24/7:

  • Call or text 988 at any time to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
  • Chat online with a trained counselor through the 988 Lifeline.
  • Visit FindSupport.gov to locate low- or no-cost mental health resources, prepare for treatment, and ask for help.

Taking action during a crisis is critical. Remember, seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

If you are outside the United States, please reach out to local crisis lines or mental health services in your area. You can find international resources at https://findahelpline.com as well as MWA’s provided resources.

Help for Someone You Know

Recognizing the warning signs in others can save lives. If you suspect someone is at risk of suicide:

  1. Call 911 if danger seems imminent.
  2. Call or text 988 to speak with a trained professional.
  3. Ask directly if they are thinking about ending their life, it will not make them more likely to attempt it.
  4. Listen without judgment and show genuine care.
  5. Stay with them or ensure they are in a safe environment with another caring person until help arrives.
  6. Remove potential means of self-harm.

Even small interventions, like checking in regularly and offering support, can make a profound difference.

Prevention Strategies and Approaches

Everyone has a role in suicide prevention, something MWA is actively working on advocating more for. Examples include:

  • Faith communities: Help individuals navigate life’s struggles, find hope, and encourage behavioral health care.
  • Schools: Implement prevention programs that identify at-risk students and provide early intervention.
  • Workplaces: Promote Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and supportive mental health policies.
  • Healthcare organizations: Integrate routine mental health screenings, provide evidence-based interventions, and offer follow-up care.
  • Community centers & local businesses: Host wellness activities, support groups, and awareness campaigns.

You can also contribute by assessing your community’s needs, reviewing suicide-related data, and implementing programs and policies that address local risks. Here’s a resource for those within the USA.

Effective Models and Frameworks

Several evidence-based frameworks guide suicide prevention efforts:

  • Effective Suicide Prevention Model (SPRC)
    • A flexible framework for developing, implementing, and evaluating prevention initiatives. It emphasizes:
      • Strategic planning
      • Keys to success
      • A comprehensive approach to maximize impact and efficiently use resources
  • Best Practices Registry (BPR)
    • The SPRC’s BPR lists programs and strategies reviewed by experts for effectiveness in preventing suicide or addressing related factors. Organizations can submit programs for consideration to help expand the evidence-based toolkit.
  • Zero Suicide Framework
    • This framework promotes the belief that suicide can be prevented within care systems. Its principles include:
      • Strengthening access, quality, and support within care systems
      • Creating a culture where suicide is not acceptable
      • Setting clear goals and using evidence-based practices to reduce suicide risk

Final Thoughts

Suicide prevention is a shared responsibility. Whether by seeking help, supporting a loved one, or engaging in community and organizational programs, every action matters. With awareness, compassion, and evidence-based approaches, we can save lives and foster communities where mental health is prioritized and supported.

If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 or chat online with the 988 Lifeline immediately. If you or they are outside the United States, please reach out to local crisis lines or mental health services in your area. You can find international resources at https://findahelpline.com as well as MWA’s provided resources.

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