The article “Suicide: Myths and Facts” in the September Ensign helps us challenge myths about suicide and be better prepared to reach out to those who may need help.

Did you know the following are all myths?

1. Most suicides happen suddenly, without warning.
2. If my child is struggling, they just need to read their scriptures, pray, and attend church, and then everything will be OK.
3. Asking a person about suicide makes things worse.
4. I have to be a professional health care worker to help someone at risk of suicide.
5. I should only trust Church-sponsored resources, not community ones.

You can help stop these myths from spreading or being handed down to the next generation. Let’s make sure nothing interferes with us reaching out to those who may be at risk for suicide. While we cannot take responsibility for the actions of others, we can take hope and feel confidence in the fact that many suicides can be prevented. Family members, friends, and others can play a critical role as they reach out with love and directness. You—yes, you—can save a life.

Read the article “Suicide: Myths and Facts.”

Did you know that September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month? Read about recent Church efforts about suicide prevention.

Related resources:

• The Friend magazine also has helps about suicide prevention.
• See the list Best LDS Resources to Help with Suicide for an extensive list of Church and community resources.