LifeSkills urges community to recognize warning signs during Suicide Prevention Month

BOWLING GREEN, KY – September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, recognizing warning signs, and connecting people to life-saving resources.

According to the CDC, more than 2 million adults nationwide attempted suicide last year. Here in Warren County, 26 people died by suicide in 2023 — double the number from the year before.

LifeSkills, a nonprofit based in Bowling Green, serves adults with mental illnesses and children with emotional or behavioral needs. Director of Community Engagement, Melanie Watts, says their mission is rooted in providing both hope and help.

“We want to give them hope. We want to give them that help. And we’re here to do that,” Watts said.

LifeSkills emphasizes prevention through education and connecting people with immediate support systems, including the national 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

“There are people out there who love and care about them,” Watts said. “They can call, they can text 988, and they will get a response 24/7.”

Watts also stresses that not everyone struggling will reach out on their own. Friends and family should check in when they notice changes, such as a loved one appearing disheveled, isolating, or breaking from their usual routine.

“There is absolutely nothing wrong with asking, ‘Are you thinking about killing yourself?’” Watts said. “That’s a myth — sometimes people just need someone to open the conversation.”

Community members can also show support later this month by participating in the Out of the Darkness Walk, an annual event that raises awareness about suicide prevention and offers hope for those impacted.