September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. On Wednesday, September 30, 2026, Hardeman Couty Mayor Todd Pulse signed a proclamation noting the significance of the month. The message for continued awareness of suicide prevention goes beyond the month of September and is important 365 days of the year.
“As a Crisis Services Director and someone who has worked in mental health for many years, Tennessee’s proclamation recognizing September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month is especially meaningful to me. The proclamation brings attention to suicide prevention and reminds Tennesseans that no one should have to face a mental health crisis alone. It also helps reduce stigma and encourages people to talk openly about mental health and seek help when they need it,” said Michelle Guia, Director of Crisis Services at Quinco Mental Health Center.
Guia sees the proclamation as representing hope and a reminder to people that their lives have value, help is available, and reaching out can make a difference. She believes suicide prevention is a community effort involving crisis responders, healthcare providers, law enforcement, educators, families, and community members who all play a role in recognizing when someone is struggling and connecting them with support.
“Although September brings special attention to suicide prevention, this work must continue throughout the year. By checking on one another, listening without judgment, and connecting people with support, we can help one person at a time,” said Guia. “Another important part of the proclamation is that it gives official statewide recognition to suicide prevention. That recognition can help strengthen community education and encourage organizations to make prevention a visible priority.”
