S.U.I.C.I.D.E. – A SMACWellbeing Guide to Suicide Prevention
Every September, the world pauses to reflect on Suicide Prevention Month. For many, this conversation feels heavy, sometimes too heavy to start. More so for those who may have lost a loved one to suicide, are struggling with suicidal thoughts, or even for the heaviness of the word itself. At SMACWellbeing, we believe silence only deepens the pain. That’s why we created a simple but powerful acronym, S.U.I.C.I.D.E., to guide everyday people in offering compassion, awareness, and support.
This isn’t about clinical jargon. It’s about language you can carry in your pocket whether you’re checking on a friend, supporting a loved one, or even struggling yourself.
S – Speak Up
Silence can feel like safety, but it often deepens despair. Speaking up, whether about your own feelings or in reaching out to someone else, opens the door to connection. A gentle, “I’ve noticed you’ve seemed down, do you want to talk?” can mean everything.
U – Understand
We don’t need to have all the answers. What people often need most is to be understood. Practice active listening: let someone share without rushing to fix, correct, or judge. Compassion builds trust.
I – Interrupt the Silence
Don’t assume someone else will step in. Ask questions. Share resources. Invite conversation. Silence can be deadly, but your voice may be the interruption that saves a life.
C – Connect
Suicide thrives in isolation. Connection, whether through friends, family, communities, or professionals, creates lifelines. Sometimes being that bridge — “Let’s spend some time together,” “I’ll walk with you” — makes all the difference.
I – Inspire Hope
Even in the darkest moments, hope exists. Share survival stories, affirmations, or simply your belief in someone’s worth. Let them know: “You matter. Your story is not finished.”
D – Detect Warning Signs
Know what to look for: withdrawal, sudden mood changes, talk of hopelessness, giving away possessions, or increased risky behaviors. Don’t dismiss these as “just a phase.” Take every sign seriously.
E – Encourage Professional Help
Encourage therapy, counseling, or helplines. Professional support saves lives. Normalize seeking help as strength, not weakness. Offering to help someone make that first call can reduce fear and stigma.
The word “suicide” often feels final, but with awareness, compassion, and action, it doesn’t have to be. Let S.U.I.C.I.D.E. remind you of your power: to speak, to connect, to hope, to act. Every conversation matters. Every life matters.
Get Help Now
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out immediately:
Global Hotlines
Nigeria Hotlines
- SURPIN Nigeria – Suicide Research and Prevention Initiative
- SMAC Wellbeing – recognizes, relates, responds, and refers
These helplines provide confidential, compassionate support. If someone is in immediate danger, please call local emergency services.
