DMH Closes Out Suicide Prevention Awareness Month with Continued Call to Action

Wrapping Up the Month of September with Statewide Efforts to Save Lives

The Mississippi Department of Mental Health (DMH) is concluding Suicide Prevention Awareness Month by highlighting the efforts made across the state to raise awareness, reduce stigma and provide hope and healing for individuals and families impacted by suicide.

Throughout September, DMH partnered with communities, providers, advocates and organizations to emphasize the importance of suicide prevention and the role each Mississippian can play in saving lives. Events included outreach with community organizations, the media, social media campaigns and the 9th Annual Suicide Prevention Symposium, which brought together experts and community members to share strategies, resources and encouragement.

A significant highlight of this year’s observance was Mississippi’s official proclamation of September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, along with the national recognition of September 8 as 988 Day, recognizing the lifesaving impact of the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline here in state. The proclamation underscores the state’s commitment to providing immediate access to mental health crisis services and ensuring every Mississippian knows help and hope are always available.

Colleges and universities across Mississippi also played a vital role in raising awareness during Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Campuses hosted awareness events, engaged students in mental health education activities and promoted 988 to ensure young adults know where to turn in times of crisis. Their outreach reflects the importance of empowering the next generation to break the stigma around mental health and support their peers.

“As we wrap up Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, we want Mississippians to know that hope is always within reach,” said Wendy Bailey, Executive Director of the Department of Mental Health. “The proclamation and 988 Day reflect Mississippi’s dedication to expanding access to crisis services… and our ability as a community to give hope, connect people with resources and be a listening ear — no matter what field you work in — saves lives.”

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 for anyone experiencing emotional distress, thoughts of suicide, or a mental health or substance use crisis. Trained in-house counselors are ready to provide immediate support and connect callers with resources close to home.

While September shines a light on suicide prevention, DMH stresses that the work continues year-round. Through education, outreach and services, the department remains committed to building stronger, healthier communities where every life is valued.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 for immediate support.