News & Media
National Suicide Prevention Month and 988 Lifeline
In the U.S., suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people ages 10-14 and among people ages 15-24, and the 11th leading cause of death overall.[i] In observance of Suicide Prevention Month – September 2025, the Michigan State Medical Society (MSMS) invites you to join with us and other organizations such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to raise awareness about the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and other critical resources.
A couple of overarching themes underscore the importance of increasing awareness of behavioral health, the availability of suicide prevention resources, warning signs, and how to extend help so that everyone knows they are not alone.
- “Compassionate Help. Anytime. Anywhere.”
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call, text, or chat 988, immediately (chat available at 988Lifeline.org). The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, previously known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, offers 24/7 judgment-free support. This toll-free nationwide hotline consists of a network of local call centers across the country that confidentially provide compassionate care for people with emotional distress or crisis related to life circumstances, anxiety, depression, suicide, mental health, substance use and more. Calls to Michigan’s 988 Lifeline are answered by compassionate and well-trained staff who help connect those experiencing crisis with support and resources. This line offers immediate support to people when life gets to be too much, regardless of the reason for call.
To reach LGBTQ+ specialized resources, you can also contact The Trevor Project’s 24/7 crisis line via text, chat, or phone – learn more at thetrevorproject.org.
- “Start a Conversation. Be the Difference.”
Per NAMI, “With one conversation, asking someone how they’re really doing — and being ready to truly listen — can save lives. Because here’s what we know: No one has to face this alone. Help exists. Healing is possible. And all it can take is for one person to start a conversation.”
According to the 2024 State of Mental Health in America report, almost 23 percent of Michigan adults have a mental health illness and more than 424,000 had serious thoughts of suicide. In addition, more than one in every 10 youths had serious thoughts of suicide. With rising levels of anxiety and emotional distress, it is crucial people know where to turn when they are in crisis.
Resources
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and Michigan Crisis & Access Line
SAMHSA Suicide and Suicide Prevention Resources
What to Do When Someone Shares They’re Struggling
Know the Signs. Know the Warnings.
You are NOT ALONE Infographic
NAMI Resource Guide – Navigating a Mental Health Crisis
[i] NAMI Fast Facts. Accessed at https://www.nami.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/NAMI-Suicide-Prevention-Month-Toolkit-2025.pdf.