Saving lives may sound like the job of first responders or emergency room clinicians. Yet saving a life from suicide can begin with a caring conversation.

September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and the courage you show when you talk to someone who’s struggling might be lifesaving to a friend or family member.

Many people think about suicide; in fact around 12.8 million people report having seriously thought about suicide, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Close to 50,000 people die by suicide in the U.S. every year.

Professionals in behavioral health care often refer to stigma that doesn’t exist for physical conditions like a broken leg or a cancer diagnosis.

But talking about a mental health condition may feel uncomfortable, especially here in the Midwest where people have the mentality of “pulling yourself up by your own bootstraps.”

Farmers and ranchers deal with stressors such as bad weather, rising expenses, unfavorable commodity prices, uncertain government policies and debt. Veterans are another group of folks who may struggle with burdens like post-traumatic stress disorder that others might not understand.

In our community, we are blessed with connections with family, friends and neighbors. Yet too many people might feel alone in their struggle.

Warning Signs of Suicide

• Thinking, talking or writing about dying from suicide

• Developing a plan about attempting suicide

• Believing that death is the only solution to their problems

• Displaying depression, fatigue, anxiety, irritation, aggression or anger

• Holding onto feelings of humiliation, shame or hopelessness

• Withdrawing from relationships with family and friends

• Losing interest in things they usually enjoy

• Using alcohol or drugs

• Sleeping too much or too little

• Poor work or school performance

• Giving away things they own

How to help a friend or family member

If someone you care about seems to be displaying these signs, you can help. Research shows that directly asking someone if they are thinking about suicide in a caring way can open an honest conversation that might save a life. Use these tips to ask the question sensitively and with sincerity:

• Be compassionate and respond with kindness.

• Allow the individual to express themselves in full.

• Actively listen. Be aware of their nonverbal cues as well as your own.

• Reaffirm that their concerns and pain are valid — and they are worthy of help and recovery.

• Be courageous and ask the question: “Are you thinking about suicide?”

If the person says “yes,” be sure to stay by their side and help ensure that person gets help.

Seeking help

Your local primary care provider can help you or a family member with mental health concerns, and if needed, they can refer you to the right resources.

The national 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7. You — or anyone you know — can call or text 988 and speak to a qualified person who can listen and refer you to additional resources or whatever else you might need. Calls are confidential.

In a crisis situation, go to your nearest emergency department.

If you or a family member is dealing with any type of mental health issue or stress, you can also call the Avera Farm and Rural Stress Hotline at 800-691-4336 to talk to a mental health professional who can connect you to resources close to home.

Talking about suicide with someone facing depression could be the step they need in order to take action toward positive outcomes. Learn more and find helpful resources at Avera.org/AskTheQuestion.

— Debbie Streier is regional president/CEO of Avera Marshall Regional Medical Center