During Suicide Prevention Month, Piedmont Macon encourages community connection and conversation

Macon, Ga. (September 15, 2026) - September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and Piedmont Macon Medical Center is raising awareness and encouraging community members to check in on loved ones, start conversations about mental health and connect individuals in crisis with available resources.

Suicide remains a significant public health concern in the U.S. In 2024, the latest year that national data is available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 48,800 people died from suicide, while 2.2 million people made an attempt. Meanwhile, an estimated 14.3 million adults seriously thought about ending their lives.

One of the biggest misconceptions surrounding suicide is that it always looks the same, according to Sabrina Weeks, DO, a fourth-year psychiatry resident from Piedmont Macon Medical Center's Behavioral Health.

"The reasons behind suicides don't look the same," Dr. Weeks said. "Thoughts of taking your own life look very different across the spectrum."

She said many people incorrectly assume suicidal thoughts are always tied to depression.

"Everyone tends to think suicide comes from depression, but that's not necessarily true," Dr. Weeks said. "OCD, schizophrenia, substance abuse and anxiety can bring on suicidal thoughts as well."

There are signs to watch out for to help determine if someone is struggling. Those include:

• Talk of feeling hopeless or like they're a burden.
• Withdrawal from family and friends.
• Significant changes in mood or behavior.
• Increased substance use.
• Comments about death or suicide.
• Giving away possessions or saying goodbye.
• While warning signs vary from person to person, one of the most effective ways to help someone who may be struggling is through genuine human connection.

"If someone suspects someone is suicidal, the best thing they can do is be a source of community for them," Dr. Weeks said. "Being there in that moment and being the person who checks in on them can make them feel wanted and help turn their thoughts around."

According to Dr. Weeks, the stigma surrounding mental health remains a barrier that prevents many people from seeking help.

"Mental health is still stigmatized, and it's hard for people to talk about," she said. "We've got to find a way to change that."

Piedmont Macon encourages community members to make mental health conversations a regular part of daily life, not just during September.

"In the month of September and really anytime during the year, check on your friends and see how they're doing," Dr. Weeks said. "The important thing to do is just listen."

Individuals experiencing a mental health crisis can call or text 988, the national Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The service provides free and confidential support from trained crisis counselors.