September is World Suicide Prevention Month and is a good time to remind ourselves that our words, actions, and support can truly make a difference in the lives of those who are facing the darkness of mental health challenges. We must acknowledge the pain that some individuals are silently enduring and let them know they are not alone. It's also a good time to share national and local resources in place to help those in crisis.
Mental health resources
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 immediately. Uncomfortable on the phone? You can chat with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988lifeline.org. Know you are not alone. There is help available, and there are people who care deeply about your well-being.
Along with the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, there are also several options in the Merrimack Valley for finding help for you or someone you know who is experiencing a mental health crisis or thoughts of suicide. Some of those options include:
Lawrence Mental Health Clinic
360 Merrimack Street
Lawrence MA 01843
United States
Phone: 978-688-4830
LAHEY BEHAVIORAL CRISIS
Lahey Health Behavioral Services has emergency psychiatric services and mobile crisis team are available 24/7, 365 days per year. We see people in their homes, schools, day care centers or other safe locations.
- 12 Methuen Street, Lawrence MA, 01840
- 978.620.1250
- Office Crisis Evaluations
- Hospital Crisis Evaluations (at LGH)
- Mobile Crisis Evaluations (at client’s home)
- On-Site CCS (Community Clinical Stabilization – Short-term Respite)
SAMARITAN SERVICES (SUICIDE PREVENTION)
Family Services’ Samaritans of Merrimack Valley strives to reduce the incidence of suicide in the Merrimack Valley and throughout Massachusetts by providing “befriending” to individuals who are lonely, depressed and contemplating suicide or self-injury. Suicide prevention is one of the primary goals of the Samaritans,
- 430 North Canal Street Lawrence, MA
- Local: (978) 327.6607
- Toll Free: 1(866) 912.4673
Haverhill Pavilion Behavioral Health Hospital
76 Summer St, Haverhill, MA 01830
(877) 799-0451
 Infographic by NAMI |
Find warning signs and risk factors of suicide, what you need to know about youth suicide, crisis resources, and more on NAMI.org.
Offer kindness, empathy, and support
During this World Suicide Prevention Month, let's be a beacon of hope for those in need. Our willingness to offer unwavering support, paired with our capacity to listen without judgment, can alter the trajectory of someone's life. Together, we can work towards creating a community where mental health is openly discussed, where struggles are met with compassion, and where every individual knows that they matter.
Let's unite in kindness, empathy, and solidarity. Let's light up the darkness with love and understanding. Remember, there's always hope – and there's always help.
