Alzheimers and Suicide Awareness Month

September: A Month to Remember and Reach Out

Alzheimer’s & Suicide Awareness Month

September is a month of reflection, connection, and action. It’s a time when two critical health issues—Alzheimer’s disease and suicide—share the spotlight, reminding us of the importance of memory, mental health, and the power of community.

Alzheimer’s Awareness: Honoring Memory, Preserving Dignity

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that slowly erodes memory, thinking, and reasoning. It affects over 6 million Americans, and its impact ripples through families, caregivers, and communities.

This month, we raise awareness to:

• Encourage early diagnosis and intervention

• Support caregivers with resources and compassion

• Promote research for better treatments and, one day, a cure

• Reduce stigma around cognitive decline and aging

• Visit https://www.alz.org/ for more information and to donate to the cause

Alzheimer’s doesn’t just steal memories—it challenges identity. But with understanding and support, we can preserve dignity and celebrate the lives behind the diagnosis.

Suicide Awareness: Breaking Silence, Saving Lives

Suicide is a leading cause of death across age groups, claiming nearly 50,000 lives in the U.S. in 2023 alone. It’s a public health crisis that demands empathy, education, and action.

September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month—a time to:

• Recognize warning signs and risk factors

• Share messages of hope and resilience

• Support mental health initiatives and crisis intervention

• Empower communities to talk openly and compassionately

Mental health challenges don’t discriminate. From veterans to teens to older adults facing isolation or cognitive decline, suicide risk can touch anyone. Awareness is the first step toward prevention.

If you or someone you know is in need of help visit https://www.hopeline-nc.org/

How You Can Make a Difference

• 💬 Start the conversation: Talk openly about memory loss and mental health

• 🧠 Educate yourself: Learn the signs of Alzheimer’s and suicide risk

• 🤝 Support caregivers and those affected: A kind word or helping hand goes far

• 📣 Advocate: Push for funding, research, and accessible care

• 🌈 Share hope: Remind others that healing is possible, and help is always available

September is not just about awareness—it’s about action. Whether you light a candle for a loved one lost, walk to end Alzheimer’s, or simply check in on a friend, your voice matters. Together, we can illuminate the path toward understanding, healing, and hope.