September 10, 2026 | ANPA-DMV
Sometimes, the most meaningful question we can ask is: “How are you really doing?” Making space for an honest answer—and knowing how to respond—can help someone take the next step toward support.
September 10 marks World Suicide Prevention Day. This year’s theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” invites us to build a culture where people can speak openly about emotional distress and seek help without shame. World Health Organization
For the Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas, DMV Chapter, this message connects with our focus on community health, education, and service. Across Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, each of us can help make our homes, workplaces, and communities more supportive.
If you or someone you know needs support now, call or text 988 in the United States, or chat through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Support is free, confidential, and available 24/7.
Making Room for Honest Conversations
Changing the narrative begins with how we respond when someone shares that they are struggling.
In our Nigerian and wider African diaspora communities, we can make room for conversations about emotional well-being alongside conversations about family, faith, education, and achievement. We can remind one another that asking for support is welcome, including when someone appears successful or usually takes care of everyone else.
Faith, family, and professional mental health care can all have a place in a person’s support system. We should encourage people to seek appropriate care while respecting the relationships and beliefs that matter to them.
A compassionate response might sound like: “Thank you for telling me. I care about you, and I can help you find support.” Avoid dismissing someone’s feelings, lecturing them, or promising to keep a suicide plan secret. 988 guidance on helping someone else
Recognizing When Someone May Need Help
Warning signs can include:
- Talking about wanting to die, feeling hopeless, or being a burden.
- Withdrawing from friends, family, or usual activities.
- Saying goodbye or giving away valued belongings.
- Significant changes in mood, sleep, or eating habits.
- Increased alcohol or drug use.
Seek help promptly, especially when these behaviors are new or becoming more pronounced. National Institute of Mental Health: Warning Signs
Five Ways to Support Someone
You do not need to have all the answers to begin a supportive conversation. The National Institute of Mental Health recommends five actions:
- Ask directly. If you are concerned, ask, “Are you thinking about suicide?” Research shows that asking does not increase suicidal thoughts or behavior.
- Listen without judgment. Give the person time to speak and acknowledge their pain.
- Help them stay safe. Ask whether they have a plan and help reduce access to dangerous items when you can do so safely.
- Connect them with support. Help them contact 988, a mental health professional, or a trusted person who can assist.
- Follow up. Keep checking in after the initial conversation or crisis.
These steps can help someone connect with care and ongoing support. National Institute of Mental Health: Five Action Steps
If there is immediate physical danger or a medical emergency, call 911. Stay with the person if it is safe to do so while help is arranged.
Caring for Those Who Care for Others
Our message also extends to physicians, residents, medical students, and caregivers: you deserve care, too.
Within our professional community, let us make it easier to ask for support, check on colleagues with kindness, and respect time for treatment and recovery. A person’s professional knowledge or responsibility to others should never prevent them from receiving compassionate care.
Carrying the Conversation Beyond September 10
This World Suicide Prevention Day, we invite the ANPA-DMV community to check in with someone, save 988, and share reliable support resources.
If you are struggling, you do not have to find the right words before reaching out. You can begin with: “I’m having a hard time, and I need someone to talk to.”
Your well-being matters. Support is available, and reaching out is a step you can take today.
Call or text 988, or visit the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for support for yourself or someone you care about.
Join ANPA-DMV: Help Build a Healthier Community
Meaningful change grows when people come together to learn, serve, and advocate for better health.
Become a member of the Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas (ANPA) and connect with the DMV Chapter. Bring your experience, compassion, and ideas to a community that values professional growth, health education, and service.
Whether you are a physician, resident, fellow, medical student, or another healthcare professional, explore the association’s membership categories and find your place.
Together, we can encourage more open conversations about mental health and help build communities where seeking support is welcomed.
