VICTORIA, Texas — Thursday, September 10th, marks World Suicide Prevention Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness, encouraging conversations and reminding people they do not have to face difficult moments alone.
Communities across the country are using the observance to emphasize the importance of connection, support and mental health awareness. Experts say recognizing when someone may be struggling and reaching out to check on them can be a critical first step in preventing a crisis.
Mental health professionals stress that conversations matter, listening matters and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Counselors at Victoria College say resources are available for those facing mental health challenges and encourage people to seek support when they need it.
“Within those sessions, we’re going to provide them strategies. We’re going to provide safety plans to help them when those times get hard,” a Victoria College counselor said. “We’re going to connect them with services on campus, such as the Don’t Sit in Silence event, where they can see that there are others struggling. And we’re going to have off campus resources, like we really promote the 988 numbers.”
As part of Suicide Awareness Month, Victoria College will host an Empty Chair Exhibit on Sept. 22 to honor those affected by suicide and raise awareness about prevention.
Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis, or concerned about someone who may be struggling, can call or text 988 at any time for free, confidential support.
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