How to Get Involved During Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month by Marianne Gouveia

September is Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month

During September, we take the time to pause and remember the lives lost to suicide, to support those who are struggling, and to remind each other that hope is always possible. For me, this month carries deep personal meaning. I lost my son, Eric, to suicide in 2016. In the wake of that devastating loss, my life changed forever. Out of that heartbreak, I founded EricsHouse to support families navigating the complex grief of losing someone to suicide or substance use.

This month is about more than remembering lives lost—it’s about taking action together. Suicide prevention begins with awareness, and each of us can play a part.

Why Awareness Matters

Talking about suicide openly reduces stigma. Awareness helps people recognize the signs of distress in others and empowers them to respond with compassion. It also reminds those who are struggling that they are not alone and that hope and help are always available.

For those of us bereaved by suicide, the message that suicide is preventable can be complicated. At times, I’ve wrestled with that thought, because it can feel like I somehow failed my son. I know many survivors share this feeling. What I’ve come to understand is that while we cannot go back and change the past, we can honor our loved ones by turning our grief into purpose and help to prevent future loss through awareness, compassion, and connection.

Ways to Get Involved This Month

Here are meaningful ways you can join the effort to raise awareness and prevent suicide:

• Light a Candle. On World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10th, people worldwide light candles at 8 p.m. in memory of those lost and in support of those who struggle.
• Wear or Display Teal and Purple. These are the awareness colors for suicide prevention. Consider wearing them, adding a ribbon to your profile picture, or displaying lights at your home or workplace.
• Attend a Community Walk or Vigil. Many organizations host remembrance walks, healing ceremonies, or vigils to honor loved ones and stand in solidarity.
• Share Resources. Post information about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline on social media, at your workplace, or in your community.
• Host a Conversation. Whether in your faith group, workplace, or family, use this month to talk openly about mental health, substance use, and suicide.
• Support Survivors. Reach out to someone you know who has lost a loved one to suicide. Even a simple “I’m thinking of you” can mean the world.

Honoring Eric’s Life

For me, awareness also means speaking Eric’s name and carrying his light forward. By telling his story, I honor his life while helping others feel less alone in their own struggles. Awareness transforms loss into purpose.

Together, We Can Make a Difference

This Suicide Prevention Month, let’s move beyond silence. By raising awareness, supporting survivors, and sharing resources, we build a culture of compassion where fewer lives are lost.

If you or someone you love is struggling, please dial 988—the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Help, hope, and healing are made possible by taking the first steps toward prevention.  Every life matters.