NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION MONTH
Cultivating Connection Nationwide: Strengthen Suicide Prevention Together
Montgomery, Ala. — This September marks Suicide Prevention Month with the theme of Cultivating Connection Nationwide: Strengthen Suicide Prevention Together, the Alabama Department of Mental Health (ADMH) and statewide partners unite to raise awareness, share life-saving resources, and remind every Alabamian that support, connection, and hope are always within reach.
In 2024, Alabama recorded 837 deaths by suicide, with a rate of 16.2 per 100,000 residents. Behind these numbers are real people, families, and communities reminding us of the vital importance of open conversations, breaking down stigma, and ensuring that help is visible and accessible in every corner of our state.
A cornerstone of that safety net is the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Since its launch in July 2022, more than 179,116 Alabamians have reached out in moments of crisis. At Alabama’s six Crisis Centers more than 5000 individual presented with symptoms of a suicidal crisis and obtained assistance immediately. Through 988 and at Crisis Centers, individuals are met by compassionate, local professionals who understand their community.
“Every call to 988 represents a step toward hope and healing and a life saved,” said ADMH Commissioner Kimberly Boswell. “Our mission at ADMH is to build a stronger, more connected system of care. Through our crisis centers, mobile crisis teams, and the dedication of our statewide partners, we are working every day to ensure that no one in Alabama must face a crisis alone.”
Connecting people to resources means bringing it directly into their communities. This September, Project Zero Suicide, facilitated by VitAL, is hosting a comprehensive suicide prevention webinar series designed to provide communities with practical tools.
In addition to virtual learning, statewide partners and prevention providers host community events and evidence-based training opportunities such as QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) and Mental Health First Aid to empower everyday citizens to recognize warning signs and offer support.
Prevention is not just about events or gatherings. It is built through everyday connections. That is why on September 10th, the Council on Substance Abuse (COSA) will lead its annual “R U OK? Day” event, encouraging all of us to check in on one another. Asking a simple question can often be the first step in guiding someone toward help.
If you or someone you know are struggling or in crisis, call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. It is available 24/7 for free, and confidential help.
For more information on events, training, and resources, contact the Office of Public Information at publicinformation.dmh@mh.alabama.gov. To download suicide prevention resources, please visit https://www.samhsa.gov/about/digital-toolkits/suicide-prevention-month.
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