Recognizing National Suicide Prevention Month
09-19-2025
Content note: This article discusses suicide prevention and may be distressing to some readers. Help is available. Call, text or chat the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or dial 911 in an emergency.
This year's Suicide Prevention Month theme is "Creating hope through action."
Talking about suicide is essential to preventing it. While it may be uncomfortable, challenge yourself to attend one learning opportunity and practice engaging in one conversation about suicide prevention this month.
Breaking the silence around suicidal thoughts
Many people experience suicidal thoughts at some point in their lives. These thoughts don’t define a person, and they don’t have to lead to tragedy. What makes the difference is when someone feels seen, heard and supported.
Creating a culture where mental health is openly discussed helps reduce stigma and encourages people to seek help early. Whether it’s a conversation with a friend, a check-in with a colleague or simply listening without judgment, these moments matter.
Building a safety net: resources that make a difference
Hennepin County offers a range of supports to help employees and their families navigate mental health challenges:
Employee Assistance Program: Provides free, confidential counseling and support for employees and household members.
Mental health coverage: Employees and dependents with county health insurance pay no copay or deductible for mental health office visits, in or out of network. Visit the Bridge for more information.
Other employee well-being resources are available.
In the broader community, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and Hennepin County Cope Mobile Crisis Team provide 24/7 support for anyone in crisis.
Learning together: webinars and community conversations
Throughout September, the Minnesota Department of Health is hosting free webinars on suicide prevention. Topics include:
Understanding the 988 Lifeline system
Supporting Black youth and addressing systemic barriers
Safe messaging and postvention strategies for professionals
And more
View the full schedule and register.
To learn more about how to share these resources and more with others, check out MDH’s toolkit for Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.
For questions or to learn more about Hennepin County’s suicide prevention work, reach out to Janavi Dhyani, Suicide and Violence Prevention coordinator, at Janavi.dhyani@hennepin.us.