September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, an important reminder that behind every statistic is a person, a family and a community. It is also an opportunity to make sure Broward County residents know one critical message: You Matter. Your Life Matters.
Life can be overwhelming, and stress can come from many places. Financial challenges, relationships, work, grief, substance use, family issues, life obstacles, isolation, and other pressures all can get in your head. At times, those challenges can feel impossible to manage. But you don’t have to go through them alone. Help is available, and reaching out can be the first step toward hope and healing.
United Way Broward’s Coalition on Behavioral Health & Drug Prevention works with community partners throughout Broward County to strengthen behavioral health resources and connect individuals and families to the support they need. Through a network of more than 130 programs and initiatives, the Coalition addresses not only suicide prevention but behavioral health needs across the lifespan, from prevention and early intervention to treatment, recovery and community education.
Beyond the programs, it starts with looking out for one another. Changes in behavior, withdrawing from family and friends, expressing hopelessness, increased substance use, dramatic mood changes or talking about being a burden, all can be signs that someone may need support. If you are concerned about a loved one, don’t be afraid to ask how they are doing, listen without judgment and help connect them with professional resources. Most importantly, know where to turn when help is needed.
No matter what you’re facing, help is always just a phone call away. Dial 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support during a mental health, suicide or substance use crisis. Broward residents can also dial 211 to connect with local mental health services and other community resources.
You do not have to wait until a situation becomes an emergency to reach out. Support is available for you, your family, your friends and your neighbors.
Life can be overwhelming and stress can come from many places. But you don’t have to go through it alone. We’re here for you.