To mark World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, DAP Health offers words of wisdom, and a message of healing and hope.

Words by Barbara Kerr

Almost everyone experiences occasional moments of anxiety or sadness. Some may experience loneliness or feelings of hopelessness. Those feelings may build up gradually or happen suddenly. Most of those emotions will pass. But what should you do if those moments last? If it’s happening to you or to someone you care about?

DAP Health psychologist Dr. Veronica Garcia-Campos notes that emotional well-being doesn’t mean someone is happy all the time or that things are always perfect in their lives. But, she says, “it does mean they can work through difficult situations and are able to talk about joy, sadness, anger, and other emotions.”

But if someone isn’t participating in activities they used to enjoy, if they aren’t engaging with their loved ones, if they are isolating themselves from colleagues at work, or if they’re not spending time with friends at school or in the community, they may be at risk. Or they may have a higher vulnerability for risk, including self-harm or suicidal thoughts.

Listen with compassion

People who are struggling may try to articulate what they’re feeling. As Garcia-Campos observes, “People may comment that they’re losing interest in life, or they have thoughts of suicide, or they feel disconnected, or they feel they’re a burden. They may share ‘I don’t think anybody notices’ or ‘I don’t think I matter anymore.’”

Conversations in those moments can be difficult. As Garcia-Campos acknowledges, “There’s no perfect way to approach it and there are no perfect words to say.” She emphasizes the importance of staying connected and compassionate, and of listening in a non-judgmental way.

Her advice: “Take them seriously. You can begin by calmly and gently saying things like ‘I notice you’re struggling, and what you’re feeling is important.’ Encourage them to seek support and help.”

Candid conversations can open doors

Suicide affects people of all ages, backgrounds, genders, and communities. Garcia-Campos emphasizes it’s important “not to be afraid to bring up hard topics, not to be afraid to talk about suicide, or to ask directly if someone is struggling, if they’re having thoughts of suicide, or even if they have a plan.”

She believes “the more they feel you’re able to talk about this, the more that opens the door for them to talk freely.”

Garcia-Campos reminds us that “asking direct questions in a compassionate and non-judgmental way is not putting an idea in someone’s head. Often, asking that person about something that is emotionally painful or difficult to talk about is opening a door that has been difficult for them.”

She adds, “It’s almost like making it acceptable to talk about something they may have been holding inside for a long time, couldn’t talk about due to shame, stigma, or fear of judgment, or thought that it was their burden alone to carry.”

Above all, she says, “By talking about it, we’re sending the message that they’re safe and that it’s okay to talk about these things freely.”

Connections and communities can save lives

“Changing the Narrative on Suicide” is the theme of World Suicide Prevention Day 2026. It’s an important reminder that suicide can be preventable and that connection, treatment, and early intervention can save lives.

Experts also note that people are more likely to seek help when communities create safe, supportive spaces. Garcia-Campos believes it’s important to normalize these conversations across the community, including school counselors, spiritual advisors, workplaces, home, and social settings. Help is also available through peer support, LGBTQ+ support systems, and by reducing isolation among older adults and vulnerable populations.

“I think it really encompasses more than just mental health and therapy,” she concludes. “It’s about starting to incorporate the other systems and the multiple layers of support available in the community, which can renew hope, remind people they matter and that help is available.”

Possible Warning Signs That Someone Is Struggling

• Thoughts about wanting to die
• Withdrawing from family or friends
• Hopelessness
• Major mood or behavior changes
• Increased alcohol or drug use
• Talking about feeling trapped or burdensome
• Changes in sleep or appetite
• Giving away possessions
• Sudden isolation

If You or Someone You Know Needs Help

• If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
• For immediate mental health support, call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, a free and confidential service available 24/7.
• Text “HOME” to 741741 to connect with the Crisis Text Line 24/7.
• DAP Health is not a designated crisis center. For broader mental health support, please contact DAP Health Behavioral Health Resources at 760-323-9255. For after-hours support, press 1 to connect with on-call services.