By: Kaitlin Langhorn
Trigger Warning: This article mentions suicide. If you’re struggling, please reach out to a friend, loved one, therapist, or call the suicide prevention hotline at 988. If you’re in immediate danger, call 911. You are important, loved, and cared for.
September is National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, and September 10th is World Suicide Prevention Day. According to the World Health Organization, over 720,000 people die by suicide each year. In the United States, the total number of suicide deaths was estimated to exceed 49,300 with it being the second leading cause of death among 10-24 year olds. These trends indicate a continued high rate of suicide in the United States, reaching levels not seen since 1941.
The Importance of Open Conversations
One way to help prevent suicide is to reduce stigma by openly discussing suicidal ideations, attempts, or experiences. Talking about this topic can help others feel less alone and more supported. Even an eight-minute conversation can have a significant impact, known as “The 8-Minute Theory.” By giving someone eight minutes of your time, you can reduce loneliness, provide support, break their cycle of worry, and boost their mood and well-being. These conversations don’t have to be about suicide; sometimes, people just need someone to talk to.
Supporting Primary Care
Additional training for primary care physicians and non-psychiatric care settings can also help. According to the American Journal of Psychiatry, 45% of future suicide decedents are seen 30 days prior to their suicide and 77% within 12 months of suicide. Repeated education sessions can help healthcare providers better identify and support individuals at risk.
Tattoos as a Symbol of Hope
Many people use tattoos to raise awareness for suicide prevention and mental health. The semicolon tattoo, symbolizing a pause rather than an end, is a powerful symbol. Our Executive Editor and Content Director at Art on Skin Magazine, Emily Franchini, proudly sports a decorative semicolon tattoo with flowers on her forearm. Inspirational quotes, such as “Still I Rise” or “I Am Enough,” are also popular tattoo ideas that promote positivity and resilience.
In Memory of Ashlyn
Ashlyn’s family created a Facebook page, Ashlyn’s Ripple, to honor her memory and raise awareness for suicide prevention after she passed away in 2020. Andrew’s sunflower tattoo on his upper arm is a tribute to Ashlyn. He fondly remembers her as a ray of sunshine who spread happiness wherever she went. Sydney, a friend of Ashlyn’s from school, also got a sunflower tattoo with the phrase “be kind” to honor her memory. Meanwhile, Madison got a sunflower tattoo on her wrist for her 18th birthday, serving as a permanent reminder of Ashlyn’s impact. She hopes to carry on Ashlyn’s memory and share stories of her kindness and spirit.
Mia’s Story
Mia’s Pierce’s “The Veil” tattoo with the lyrics “Darling, you’ll be okay” helped her through difficult times. She says, “It helped me feel less alone and that there were others who understood that pain.” For Mia, her tattoo is a reminder to keep pushing through challenges.
Gabrielle’s Story
Gabrielle and her tattoo artist came up with a Captain Nemo inspired piece that is placed over a rough scar on her forearm. She says, “It is based off of the loneliest place on Earth so that is where I left my battle sword so no one could ever find it again.” A very powerful tribute to her mental health journey.
Izzy’s Story
Izzy’s ghost tattoo, stitching itself back together, represents her journey towards healing and recovery. She says, “I got this tattoo to represent that even though I once felt like I was better off not on this Earth anymore, I’ve learned to confront my trauma and move through it into a peaceful existence.”
Fundraising for a Cause
During September, Art on Skin is partnering with To Write Love On Her Arms, a non-profit organization providing access to therapy, treatment, and recovery for mental health. Since 2006, they’ve invested $4.3 million in treatment and recovery and funded 31,891 hours of therapy. Thank you to those who have supported this cause. If you haven’t donated yet, there’s still time! Our fundraising event continues throughout the month of September.
Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional. You can also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or text the Crisis Text Line at 741741.
By working together, we can create a supportive community that encourages open conversations and promotes mental health awareness. Let’s break the stigma surrounding mental health and support those who are struggling.
