At Waterside Psychiatry, we believe that mental health care begins with truly seeing the person in front of us. Suicide Prevention Awareness Month is a reminder that behind every statistic is a human life, someone’s child, sibling, teammate, or friend, carrying far more than they may let on.
Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death in the United States. According to the CDC, nearly 50,000 people lost their lives to suicide in 2022, a number that continues to rise. For every life lost, countless more struggle silently with thoughts of hopelessness and despair. But suicide is not inevitable; it is preventable. With awareness, connection, and evidence-based care, lives can be saved.
Research shows that human connection is one of the most powerful protective factors against suicide. When people feel truly seen and understood, their brains release oxytocin and serotonin, neurotransmitters that lower stress and increase feelings of trust and safety. In moments of crisis, connection can interrupt the cycle of despair by calming the nervous system and creating enough space for hope to re-enter. This is why, at Waterside Psychiatry, we place authentic connection at the very center of our care.
Suicide rarely happens “out of the blue.” Recognizing warning signs can open the door to life-saving conversations. Sometimes these signs look like expressing hopelessness, feeling like a burden, or withdrawing from friends, family, and usual activities. Other times they may be seen in sudden changes in sleep or appetite, shifts in mood, increased use of alcohol or drugs, or even openly talking about wanting to die or searching for ways to self-harm. If you notice these changes, don’t wait. Ask the question directly: “Are you thinking about suicide?” Research shows that asking does not put the idea in someone’s head; instead, it opens a door for help.
When you find yourself worried about someone, there are simple but powerful steps you can take:
Suicide prevention is not just about responding in crisis, it is about building resilience, fostering community, and offering treatment that restores balance to both mind and body. At Waterside Psychiatry, we are committed to creating a space where every person feels safe, supported, and seen, one patient at a time. Together, we can replace silence with conversation, stigma with compassion, and despair with hope.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please call or text 988 immediately. Help is available, and you are not alone.