09/15/2026
💜 You matter. Your story still has tomorrow.
Yesterday, September 8, was **988 Day**, and September is **National Su***de Prevention Month**—a time to raise awareness, share resources, and remind young people that help is available.
Top Teens of America, Baltimore Chapter, is encouraging real conversations about teen mental health. Every teen deserves to feel heard, supported, and connected.
The facts show why this matters: In 2023, approximately **4 in 10 U.S. high school students** reported persistent sadness or hopelessness, and **1 in 5** seriously considered attempting su***de during the previous year. [CDC](https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-youth/mental-health/index.html)
Together, we can turn awareness into action:
💬 **TALK.** Check in with the teens in your life. If you’re concerned, ask directly: “Are you thinking about su***de?” Asking does not increase suicidal thoughts.
💜 **SUPPORT.** Listen without judgment, take their feelings seriously, and keep checking in.
🤝 **TAKE ACTION.** Help them connect with a trusted adult, school counselor, mental health professional, or 988. Teens: you do not have to manage a friend’s crisis alone. These steps follow [NIMH’s su***de prevention guidance](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/5-action-steps-to-help-someone-having-thoughts-of-su***de).
📱 **Save it. Share it. Know it: 988.**
If you or someone you know needs support, **call or text 988**, or chat at [988lifeline.org](https://988lifeline.org/). The Su***de & Crisis Lifeline provides free, confidential support, 24/7 in the United States.
**Real conversations. Stronger tomorrows.** 💜💙
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