Talking about mental health and talking about suicide can help to save someone’s life. During this month, Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s begin the practice — or increase the practice — of talking about this topic that may be a bit uncomfortable but is so important.

“Suicide is a topic that hides in the shadows. All too often it goes unaddressed, even when we may sense someone is struggling,” it states on the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention website, afsp.org. “You can make a difference by learning the warning signs, knowing the risk factors, and bravely having a real open and honest conversation with someone you care about.”

It isn’t easy to start a difficult conversation like this. We don’t always know what to say, we feel ill-equipped or unqualified to help or we don’t want to cause awkward or uncomfortable situations.

AFSP’s website lists several conversation starters to help us and our loved ones think about and discuss ways to be mentally healthy. How do you feel about the future, even if it’s just tomorrow? What is one thing you are looking forward to? Who do you reach out to when you need someone to be there for you? What coping strategies help you? These are just a few examples.

The site also lists several ways to begin a difficult discussion if we think someone may be struggling or thinking about suicide: How are you doing – really? I have been through hard times in my life and I know that talking helps – let’s talk. How can I help you? What’s going on in your life? I care about you and I have noticed that you seem sad lately. Let’s go for a walk. Are you thinking about suicide?

Watching for warning signs will help us know when we need to begin one of these conversations. Some signs to watch for include: increased use of alcohol or drugs, withdrawing from activities, isolating from friends and family members, aggression, sleeping too much or too little, loss of interest, agitation and talking about unbearable pain, feeling hopeless or being a burden.

When noticing any of these signs or any other clues that show that our loved ones are seeming different than usual or are exhibiting signs of hopelessness, it’s important to talk. Talking can demonstrate that we care and help others feel listened to and even feel relief and, in the course of the conversation, learn how to get help. “Let’s look up some places to find help” or “Let’s call or text 988.”

While there’s no single cause for suicide, it most often occurs when stressors and health issues converge to create an experience of hopelessness and despair. “Depression is the most common condition associated with suicide, and it is often undiagnosed or untreated. Conditions like depression, anxiety, and substance problems, especially when unaddressed, increase risk for suicide,” it states on afsp.org.

Every day, not just during this month, talk openly. If it’s you who is struggling, talk. If it’s someone else who is struggling, talk. Talk as soon as you become concerned. Talk more than once if needed.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or needs support, help is available through the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 or visiting the 988 Lifeline website at 988lifeline.org.