BHDD Office of Mental Health - Suicide Prevention Program

07/30/2026

Today is International Day of Friendship!

It is so important for us to recognize and be thankful for the friendships that we build with others. Friendship and connection are essential for our mental wellbeing and greatly improve our quality of life.

Today, be thinking of ways that you can celebrate the friends in your life.

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[ID: Clipart of the backside of 4 individuals facing a navy background containing banner garlands and the words “International Day of Friendship”, as well as small, white stars around the bottom of the image.]

07/24/2026

Today is International Self-Care Day! It is important to take part in self-care to help maintain both one’s physical and mental health. Taking part in physical activity, eating a nutritious meal, journaling, listening to music, and getting a good night’s rest are all great ideas for self-care to approve your mental wellbeing.

Make self-care a priority today!

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[ID: A woman sits in a meditating position with her eyes closed, surrounded by images representing self-care activities (sleep, music, reading, exercise, aromatherapy, nutritious food, and hot tea).]

07/19/2026

July 19th-25th is National Probation, Parole & Pardon Week.

South Carolina Probation, Parole & Pardon (SCPPP) is partnered with the BHDD Office of Mental Health Zero Su***de Initiative Grant, an initiative to help bring awareness and treatment not only to those working for SCPPP, but the population they supervise.

During this week, we honor the vital work of Community Correction Professionals who help keep communities safe while supporting rehabilitation.

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[ID: Logo for the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole, and Pardon Services. A yellow image of the state of South Carolina with the state crest in the middle and the words "prepare, provide, protect" encircling it.]

07/15/2026

The 988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline is for everyone. Through the 988 Lifeline, you have access to free, quality, one-on-one assistance. Our skilled, judgement-free counselors are here to provide compassionate support. You deserve to feel heard and cared about anytime, anywhere, 24/7/365.

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[ID: One the left side, a green panel displays the text: "988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline" and below it, the message: "Help in the moment. Support that continues." On the right side, a young man is shown sitting against a brick wall, looking off to the side with a relaxed, thoughtful expression. He's wearing a backward cap, stud earring, and a sweatshirt with colorful lettering.]

07/10/2026

07/08/2026

Your presence matters more than you know. 💙 A listening ear, a warm hug, and an open heart can be life-changing for a young person in crisis.

There is no single cause that leads to su***de or suicidal thoughts. Research shows that people who die by su***de often have a mix of risk and protective factors in their life. Ways you can help:

🔍 Develop coping and problem-solving skills
👪 Encourage connections to family, friends, and community
🧑‍⚕️ Support access to healthcare
🌿 Nurture supportive relationships with family members and other trusted adults

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[ID: In the background, a young African-American boy smiles as he is being pulled into a hug by his father. There are several teal design accents on the borders of the image. Text reads “Su***de Prevention for Parents and Caregivers: When life feels overwhelming for youth, support from family members can make a big difference. Source: American Academy of Pediatrics, American Foundation for Su***de Prevention, 2025.”]

07/06/2026

Did You Know?

AFSP posts monthly Research Connection Roundups on their website that highlight recently published findings from AFSP-funded studies in su***de prevention.

Recent topics included:
• sleep in connection to youth mental health,
• personalized interventions based on emotional patterns, and
• suicidal thoughts and behaviors in autistic individuals.

For more information, visit afsp.org/research-roundup/

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Check out our monthly update of recent findings from AFSP-funded research studies.

07/03/2026

07/01/2026

July Wellness Check-In

Summer can be busy, overwhelming, and emotionally draining for many individuals and families. This is your reminder to pause, breathe, and check in with yourself.

Taking care of your mental health may look like: Resting without Guilt Spending time outdoors Reaching out for support Taking breaks when needed

Your well-being matters, and support is always available.

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[ID: A peaceful summer-themed setting with a beach view, coffee mug, sunglasses, a sun hat, and a notepad that reads “be kind to your mind”. Text reads: “July Wellness Check-In. Summer can be busy, overwhelming, and emotionally draining for many individuals and families. This is your reminder to pause, breathe, and check in with yourself. Taking care of your mental health may look like: resting without guilt, spending time outdoors, reaching out for support, taking breaks when needed.”]