September marks Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time set aside to talk openly about a topic that too many families face in silence. Southeast Healthcare has spent decades building behavioral health programs across central and eastern Ohio, and part of that work is making sure people know help is available before a crisis becomes an emergency.
Recognizing when someone needs support
There is no single warning sign, but a few patterns are worth watching for in someone you care about: withdrawing from friends and activities, giving away belongings, talking about feeling like a burden, or a sudden calm after a period of visible distress. If something feels different or concerning, trust that instinct enough to ask a direct question rather than waiting for a clearer sign.
How to start the conversation
Asking someone directly whether they are thinking about suicide does not plant the idea. Research consistently shows the opposite: it opens the door for honesty. A simple, caring question such as “I have noticed you have not seemed like yourself; are you thinking about hurting yourself?” can be the first step toward connecting someone with help.
Where to turn for help
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988, or chat at 988Lifeline.org for confidential, around-the-clock support. If it is a medical emergency, call 911.
For ongoing support, Southeast Healthcare’s Behavioral Health Services team provides trauma-informed, evidence-based care across our locations in Franklin, Delaware, Belmont, Carroll, Harrison, Monroe, Morrow, and Tuscarawas counties. Our approach treats mental health alongside physical health, because the two are rarely separate in practice. Visit our Locations page to find the office nearest you, or call (614) 225-0990 to schedule an appointment.