Why Suicide Prevention Matters
September is Suicide Prevention Month, and statistics continue to show how prevalent suicide is today. The mental health landscape has evolved with technology—especially social media and artificial intelligence (AI)—but the core ways to support those struggling with suicidal thoughts remain the same. Taking action could save someone’s life.
Suicide Statistics in the United States
According to CDC data from 2023, 12.8 million people in the United States considered suicide. Of those, 3.7 million made a plan, and 1.5 million attempted suicide. Tragically, 49,000 died by suicide. Men are about four times more likely to die by suicide, and Native Americans have the highest rates among all racial groups. The age group most likely to die by suicide is those 85 years and older. The Trevor Project reported that in 2024, 39% of LGBTQ+ youth considered suicide, with even higher rates for transgender or nonbinary youth. Additionally, 12% of LGBTQ+ youth attempted suicide.
The Role of Social Media and Technology
These statistics highlight how serious this issue is. Today, it is necessary to be aware of social media and AI’s influence on mental health. Social media can impact mental health both positively and negatively, depending on who you follow, admire, or interact with. The information that fills our feeds affects our beliefs—including about ourselves. While your favorite TikToker or a former classmate on Instagram might not explicitly criticize your life, the culture of likes and comments can foster an unhealthy cycle of comparison.
Social media platforms exist to attract attention, often sharing the most sensational content to keep people engaged. Like TV news, social media sometimes thrives on fear and surprise, but it can be even more insidious, as its algorithms are designed to maximize engagement. This, combined with the lightning-fast spread of information, can be overwhelming or even debilitating—especially for those struggling to find meaning.
Dopamine, Brain Chemistry, and Digital Habits
Social media and technology affect our brain chemistry. The search for approval, the instant gratification of answers, and sensory overload stimulate dopamine release—the brain’s pleasure chemical—which tells us to repeat pleasurable activities. This same neural pathway contributes to substance misuse, as the brain adapts and begins to need more stimulation to feel the same pleasure. Over time, more alcohol, drugs, gambling, or social media is needed to achieve the earlier “high.” Instead, we should seek out activities that provide lasting emotions like joy, rather than fleeting pleasure.
Artificial Intelligence: A Double-Edged Sword
Artificial intelligence is another powerful influence. While many think AI will unlock the future, it must be used carefully. AI can simulate human thinking but lacks reasoning and nuance. For example, a humorous 2024 search asked Google how many rocks to eat in a day, and it replied, mistakenly, “once per day.” More gravely, a 2024 MIT Technology Review article criticized OpenAI for its role in a young man’s death after an AI provided unsafe information about suicide. AI will often provide what is asked—but it may not always be helpful or safe. Relying too heavily on AI for support is risky; trusted humans remain vital.
The Importance of Seeking Support
Reaching out to people you trust is sometimes seen as a weakness, but it is one of the most powerful strategies for suicide prevention. Admittedly, this is easier said than done. Working on honesty about your thoughts and feelings is important—choose someone who is open to hearing you. If not, consider reaching out to others, including mental health professionals or the crisis line 988.
How to Support Someone Struggling With Suicidal Thoughts
If you know someone who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts or planning suicide, follow these five steps from the Department of Health and Human Services:
1. Ask
Start by asking the difficult questions, such as “Are you thinking about suicide?” or “Are you having thoughts of hurting or killing yourself?” Asking directly and with genuine concern opens the door to honesty.
2. Be There
Listen without judgment. Judgment can come from words, facial expressions, or other nonverbal cues. Focus on being present, as vulnerability around this topic is extremely difficult. Support from loved ones helps a person feel seen and heard, which can reduce their risk.
3. Help Keep Them Safe
Identify and remove harmful objects, such as sharp items, medications, firearms, and toxic chemicals. Find out if your loved one has a specific plan to hurt themselves and intervene to reduce access to means.
4. Help Them Connect
Help the person connect with emergency services like 988, which can be reached by text or call. Other resources include mental health professionals, trusted friends or family, and influential community leaders.
5. Follow Up
Show ongoing support. Check in regularly through calls, messages, or scheduled meetings. Use features like “Send Later” to schedule messages if needed. Ongoing contact reassures a person that they are not alone.
Compassion Is Crucial
Suicidal thoughts are a hard reality, and supporting a loved one can feel overwhelming. But simple acts of support and compassion can make a huge difference. Difficult conversations are worth having. If someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, Voyage Counseling can connect them with a therapist who will listen and help them feel safe and supported.
Getting Help During Suicide Prevention Month and Beyond
If you or someone you know is struggling, contact our therapy office today to get set up with a Brownsburg therapist. In case of emergency or outside of business hours, contact 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or call 911. These resources offer immediate help and can assist with connecting to a therapist in the community.
About the Author: Voyage Counseling Therapist Luke Hatton, LCSW
Luke Hatton, LCSW, is a dedicated therapist at Voyage Counseling in Brownsburg, Indiana. With years of experience supporting clients through their mental health journeys, Luke is passionate about suicide prevention and providing compassionate, evidence-based care.