In the United States, over 34,000 lives are taken every year from suicide. Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death among Americans and has claimed more lives than the victims of HIV/AIDS and homicide combined. Since September is National Suicide Prevention Month, it’s important to pay tribute to those who have lost their lives to suicide and to raise awareness in your community. Here is a list of 6 ways to take action this month.

1. Share the National Suicide Prevention Hotline on social media.

By sharing the hotline number, you can help to raise awareness and help those who are struggling. This hotline is available 24/7 and is confidential and free.

National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1800-273-8255

2. Make affirmation cards/posters.

Creating posters with positive messages on them is a clever way to make your community a happier and healthier place. Simple things such as “You are enough,” to “Today is a perfect day,” are just some examples of what to write. Hang up the affirmation cards/posters around your community and even in your own bedroom if needed.

3. Educate others about the warning signs of suicide.

Symptoms of suicide are subtle, yet profound. By printing off symptom lists and posting them throughout your community, you are directly raising awareness and educating others. Posting on social media is also another way of spreading the message.

4. Spread awareness about mental illness.

Whether you know a lot about mental illness or not, it’s important to be educated and informed on the topic. Doing some light reading on depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc will be quite enough to help you understand those with the disorder. Educating others about what you learned is a perfect opportunity to spread awareness.

5. Participate in the suicide prevention walk.

Each year, local groups hold a Suicide Prevention Walk to pay tribute and to spread awareness. If your local group produces free t-shirts and merchandise, feel free to collect them. Going to the walk may be an experience you’ll never forget.

6. Donate to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

The AFSP is a non-profit organization that strives to prevent suicide and educate the community on mental illness. Through Facebook, it’s easy to donate and your contributions will be much appreciated.