September brings the shift from summer to fall, with families returning to school and daily routines. It is also National Recovery Month and Suicide Prevention Month, reminding us of the close relationship between substance use, mental health, and suicide. With suicide being the 11th leading cause of death in the United States, our goal this month is to raise awareness about these connections, reduce stigma, and promote open conversations.

Both mental health challenges and substance use disorders (SUDs) can bring feelings of depression, anxiety, and isolation, all of which increase the risk of suicide. In 2023 alone, 49,316 Americans died by suicide, and there were an estimated 1.5 million suicide attempts. Recovery support plays an important role in reducing shame and isolation while offering healthy coping mechanisms.

According to Mental Health America (MHA), more than 15% of adults in the U.S. experienced a substance use disorder in the past year; however, more than 90% of them did not receive treatment. This shows the urgent need for accessible care and support. Many people turn to alcohol or drugs as a way to escape emotional pain, but recovery programs can help break that cycle and provide stability, hope, and tools for long-term wellness.

It’s important to recognize potential warning signs in yourself or loved ones, including:

• Sudden withdrawal from friends, family, or activities
• Extreme mood swings or irritability
• Talking about hopelessness or feeling trapped
• Increased use of alcohol or drugs
• Neglecting personal care or daily responsibilities

If you have a loved one who is struggling, starting an open, non-judgmental conversation can make a big difference. Encourage them to explore treatment options or connect with resources that can provide the support they need. With the right care, recovery is possible.

Finding the right support can make all the difference. At CADS (Center for Alcohol & Drug Services, Inc.), we provide evaluations, treatment options, and prevention services to help individuals and families facing substance use challenges. If you or someone you care about is struggling, you can also call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for immediate support. You can also take CADS’ online assessment right now to better understand risk, access prevention resources, or discover which treatment services might be a good match.

Additional resources include the SAMHSA Treatment Locator and local support groups for mental health and substance use recovery.

Suicide prevention and recovery are deeply connected, and both begin with reaching out for help. If this topic has you thinking about a loved one or your own situation, take a step today. Share this information, check in on those around you, and remember that healing is possible. CADS is here to guide and support you whenever you are ready.

Read more from CADS:

1. From Stress to Success: Supporting Student Well-Being and Preventing Substance Use

2. Understanding the Risks of Mixing Substances

3. PTSD Awareness Month: Understanding the Impact on Families