Suicidal thoughts, much like mental health conditions, can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background.

According to Crossroads Community Service Board, “in fact, suicide is often the result of an untreated mental health condition. Suicidal thoughts, although common, should not be considered normal and often indicate more serious issues.

“Each year, more than 41,000 individuals die by suicide, leaving behind their friends and family members to navigate the tragedy of loss. In many cases, friends and families affected by a suicide loss (often called ‘suicide loss survivors’) are left in the dark. Too often the feelings of shame and stigma prevent them from talking openly,” officials said in a press release.

September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month — a time to share resources and stories in an effort to shed light on this highly taboo and stigmatized topic. “We use this month to reach out to those affected by suicide, raise awareness and connect individuals with suicidal ideation to treatment services. It is also important to ensure that individuals, friends and families have access to the resources they need to discuss suicide prevention.”

If you or someone you know are in crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.

Learn more about what you can do as an individual, friend, or family member at www.nami.org/suicideawarenessmonth.