I have supported people experiencing suicidal thoughts and ideation in my counselling work, and one thing I have learned is that struggling deeply is part of being human. It is not something to be ashamed of, and it does not have to remain a secret.

Sometimes, suicidal thoughts can be a way of expressing just how overwhelming life has become — a cry for help when someone can no longer see how to carry what they are carrying.

Talking about these experiences does not make them more real or more frightening. Sometimes, being able to speak honestly about what is happening inside, without judgement, can simply mean no longer having to hold it all alone.

And perhaps that is something worth remembering beyond Suicide Prevention Month.

It is okay to struggle.
It is okay to need support.
It is okay to take time to care for yourself in whatever way feels meaningful to you.

It is also worth remembering the people around us. Sometimes a quiet check-in, a conversation, or simply letting someone know that they matter can mean more than we realise. We do not always know what another person is carrying beneath the surface.

And for those who have lost someone to suicide, there is another part of this conversation that deserves to be held with care.

This post is also for you.

For the grief, the questions, the love, the anger, the sadness, and everything that may remain after such a loss. There is no simple way to put words around that kind of pain.

So, although September has passed, I wanted to honour the message it carries:

Struggle is human.
Talking matters.
Connection matters.
And no one should feel ashamed of needing support.

Please note, I offer counselling support for suicidal thoughts and ideation, but not crisis support for an active suicidal situation. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, Samaritans can be contacted free, day or night, on 116 123, or call 999 and select the option for a mental health crisis.