09/11/2026
Today is National Su***de Prevention Day. Suicidal ideation is actually a very common mental health issue. It is often a symptom of depression. It’s important for everyone, not just clinicians to pay attention to other symptoms that often lead up to a su***de crisis. Not every person that has thoughts of hurting themselves actually intend on doing so. As clinicians we are trained and skilled at assessing the severity of suicidal thoughts which is the first step in helping someone in crisis. Once we have determined the level of severity then we collaborate with the client to develop a safety plan in case the client experiences another episode. When a person is suicidal the most important thing to do is validate their experience not dismiss or minimize it. Being fully present is the most powerful tool to keep the person safe. Tell the person to call The Su***de and Crisis hotline at 988 if they feel like harming themself again and always check on them.
