SUICIDE PREVENTION MONTH
Together in Strength, Dignity, Hope, and Purpose
Montgomery, Ala. – This September throughout Suicide Prevetion Month, the Alabama Department of Mental Health and statewide partners unite in Strength, Dignity, Hope, and Purpose to save lives—raising awareness of suicide risk, promoting evidence-based care, and sharing messages of hope and resilience.
The most direct way to access help in a suicidal crisis is to contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, an immediate connection to compassionate and accessible care. Since July 2022, more than 132,000 Alabamians have contacted 988 in moments of crisis. 988 has become an integral part of the state’s mental health response.
“Every day, ADMH is building a stronger, more connected system of care, with a mission to save lives in our state. The Alabama System of Care ensures individuals in crisis have immediate access to help and that no one in a community is left behind,” said Commissioner Kimberly Boswell.
Through the Alabama Crisis System of Care, resources like regional crisis centers and mobile crisis teams bring help closer to home.
Reaching people where they are does not only mean having access to services, but it also means sparking conversations in communities. This September, Project Zero Suicide, facilitated by VitAL, presents town hall meetings in Marion, Winston, Cullman, and Clay counties. These events create safe spaces to discuss mental health, teach suicide warning signs, and can offer Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)—a two-day, evidence-based course on responding to suicidal ideation.
Another provider initiative is “R U OK? Day,” led by the Council on Substance Abuse (COSA). The campaign encourages people to reach out, check in, and talk to each other to help navigate difficult times. It’s a simple reminder that asking someone “Are you okay?” can be the first step in saving a life.
Throughout Suicide Prevention Month, ADMH urges all Alabamians to foster a culture of openness and support. By initiating conversations and sharing information, everyone can have a role in the prevention of suicide. For more information, contact the Office of Public Information at publicinformation.dmh@mh.alabama.gov.