Prevention Saves Lives:

Each September, we observe both National Recovery Month and Suicide Prevention Month. These observations share a powerful message: help is real, hope is possible, and healing can happen. They also remind us of something equally important – strong prevention efforts can save lives. When people get support early, they may have fa lower risk of overdose, suicide, and other serious health problems.

Understanding the Overdose Crisis:

Drug overdose affects people of every age, race and background. In 2024, nearly 79,400 people in the United States died from overdose. While this number is lower than in the past years, it is still far too high. Every life lost represents a family, a friend group, and a community forever changed.

Mental Health and Substance Use Are Connected:

Mental health and substance use are often linked. A person who misuses alcohol or other drugs may also feel sad, worried, or hopeless. Some people may even experience thoughts of suicide. Studies show that people with substance use disorders have a higher risk of suicide. Because of this, systems of care need to look at both mental health and substance use needs. When we talk openly about these connections, we reduce stigma and make it easier for people to ask for help.

Prevention Makes a Difference:

Families and communities can help prevent substance misuse and support mental wellness. Education, treatment, support services, and understanding matters. Even small actions – a conversation, a check-in, or sharing a resource can strengthen protective factors and reduce risk.

Other ways we can help include –

• Learning the warning signs of mental health concerns and substance misuse
• Talking openly about mental health and substance misuse
• Helping people find treatment and recovery serivces
• Supporting friends, family members, and neighbors
• Teaching young people health coping skills and ways to stay safe
• Sharing information about local resources

Everyone Has a Role:

Prevention is a community effort. Parents, teachers, health care workers, faith leaders, and local groups can all help. Even one small step can support someone who needs help. You don’t need special training to make a difference. A simple conversation, a listening ear, or help finding support can make a big difference. When people fell cared for and connected, they may be more likely to ask for help.

Recovery is possible. Help is available. Prevention can save lives.

Resources:

Garnett MF, Minino AM. Drug Overdose Deaths in the United States, 2023-2024, National Center for Health Statistics Products – Data Briefs – Number 549 – January 2026

Athey A, et al. Association of Substance Use with Suicide Mortality. Drug and Alcohol Dependence Reports, 2025. Association of substance use with suicide mortality: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis – Johns Hopkins University