Reach Out
Start the Conversation About Suicide
For Suicide Prevention Month this September, Lines for Life and our community partners across Oregon and beyond are celebrating by encouraging everyone to Reach Out and Start the Conversation about suicide prevention – in our schools, communities, workplaces, and more.
Together, we are creating safe spaces where people can talk openly about their mental health, inspire hope, and promote mental wellness.
Suicide is preventable. Reach out to those around you and start real, non-judgmental conversations about mental health and suicide.
Who is Impacted by Suicide?
Mental health struggles and thoughts of suicide impact people of every age group, culture, and identity.
Our views and feelings about mental health and suicide differ by culture and identity, in addition to our personal beliefs and experiences. Each culture or community has its own history and norms about how to seek support and help for mental health issues, including suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
To prevent suicide and promote mental wellness for all, we must learn to incorporate cultural differences into the support we provide.
Read more about why we need culturally tailored support for suicide prevention.
See How Others Start the Conversation
Join us as we explore examples of our community partners, staff members, and leaders in suicide prevention who are taking the necessary steps to Start the Conversation and promote mental health for all.
Start the Conversation: Mike, Clinical Trainer
My first career was in the restaurant industry, managing restaurants and eventually managing theaters and event venues for a large chain of Oregon brewpubs. I had to leave because I drank too much, and I was like a kid in a candy store.Eventually, I became interested in the substance...
Start the Conversation: Angie, Lead Clinical Preceptor
I’ve always been passionate about supporting people when they might feel stigmatized or isolated.When I was growing up, my family struggled with poverty. Some of them turned to substances to cope and, even though they were around, I felt alone. The first funeral I ever went to...
You Call, We Answer: Cami, Events Coordinator
The ripple effects of substance abuse and suicide are quantifiable and immense. I know firsthand how difficult it is to lose a loved one to suicide. I’m a suicide loss survivor. My father struggled with extreme mental illness and died by suicide when I was just nine years old....
How Can YOU Start the Conversation?
It’s not just our community leaders making a difference – anyone can Start the Conversation in their own circles! You can Start the Conversation by simply asking, “How are you really?” or sharing how you’ve been feeling lately
Supportive and meaningful relationships help build resilience and well-being – a conversation with an understanding friend or loved one can often help heavy thoughts feel lighter. Identify a loved one you can lean on for support – or offer to be there for someone in your life.
Reach Out for Support with Your Mental Health
We know it may not always be easy or possible to Start the Conversation with those around you. If you have mental health concerns and aren’t sure who to reach out to, we’re here to help. Our crisis and emotional support helplines are available 24/7.
Learn How to Help in a Crisis
Want to Start the Conversation about suicide? Want to be prepared if someone reaches out to you seeking support, but not quite sure where to start?
We provide virtual and in-person training opportunities for anyone who wants to learn how to assess suicide risk and refer others to appropriate resources.
If you, your organization or community want to develop crisis intervention skills, learn more about our upcoming training.
Training is available to anyone who wants to help others in crisis – you do not need to be a behavioral health professional.