September is Suicide Prevention Month

9/17/2025

Jessi Morgan, Middle and Upper School Wellness Director

Every September, schools and communities across the country come together to recognize September as Suicide Prevention Month. Trinity School uses this time to remind students how to access resources, how to get help for a friend, and to remind them that they are not alone if they are struggling.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, suicide is the second leading cause of death amongst people aged 10-34. Because we know that suicide rates have been steadily increasing since 2008, it is vital to ensure that students are aware of how to access support and resources.

While these statistics can be overwhelming, it is important to remember that families play a critical role in suicide prevention and that simply providing points of connection can be a powerful tool to help prevent suicide.

Families can help by:

Opening up the conversation—ask them how they are doing emotionally, socially, academically, and physically.
Listen without judgment. Let your child know it’s safe to share feelings.
Ask directly. If your child is struggling, it’s okay to say: “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?” (Research has shown that asking directly about suicide will not give children thoughts of suicide)
Encourage coping skills. Exercise, creative outlets, journaling, and time with supportive friends build resilience.
Model balance. Show kids it’s okay to rest, ask for help, and take care of themselves.
Reminding their children if someone confides in them about harming themselves–Don’t be sworn to secrecy. Seek support from a trusted adult. Friends don’t keep secrets that others are unsafe.

Possible warning signs that your child may be struggling:

Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves
Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
Talking about being a burden to others
Increasing the use of risky behavior
Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
Sleeping too little or too much
Withdrawing or isolating themselves
Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
Extreme mood swings
Searching for ways to hurt themselves (online searches, new or unusual questions about weapons, etc)

If you suspect that your child might be struggling:

Be direct. Talk openly and matter-of-factly about suicide.
Be willing to listen. Allow expressions of feelings. Accept the feelings.
Be non-judgmental. Don’t debate whether suicide is right or wrong, or whether feelings are good or bad. Don’t lecture on the value of life.
Get involved. Become available. Show interest and support.
Don’t act shocked. This will put distance between you.
Offer hope that alternatives are available but do not offer glib reassurance.
Take action. Remove means, like weapons or pills.
Get help from people or agencies specializing in crisis intervention and suicide prevention. (The Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 by dialing 988)

While it’s important to recognize warning signs and know when it is time to reach out for additional resources, it’s just as important to focus on the strengths and supports that protect students and help them thrive. Research shows that the following protective factors reduce the risk of suicide and build resilience:

Strong connections with family, friends, and caring adults
Feeling a sense of belonging at school and in the community
Healthy coping strategies like physical activity, journaling, art, or mindfulness
Access to mental health care and knowing how to reach out for help
Opportunities to contribute and feel valued through clubs, sports, volunteering, or faith communities

Every positive connection makes a difference. By encouraging open conversations, celebrating strengths, and showing unconditional support, we can help students know they are never alone — and that there is always hope for tomorrow.

If you are looking for community resources or would like to discuss support available to your student at school please reach out to me at jmorgan@trinitymidland.org or by phone at 432-697-3281 ext 242.

If you or someone you know are struggling with thoughts of suicide please reach out to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. In the Permian Basin you can also reach out to the PermiaCare Crisis Line at 1-844-420-3964.

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September is Suicide Prevention Month

Trinity School of Midland