September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time for all of us to have a vital conversation that we often shy away from. For Black men, this conversation is especially critical. You are often taught to internalize your pain, to be “strong,” and to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders in silence. But this silence can be deafening.
The Reality We Face
The numbers tell a story we can no longer ignore. While the suicide rate for the general population has its own patterns, the rate for Black youth has risen faster than any other group. The suicide attempt rate for Black male high school students is higher than that of their white counterparts. This data is not just a statistic; it represents the brothers, fathers, and sons in our lives who may be silently struggling.
Depression, for many Black men, doesn’t always look like deep sadness. It can manifest as isolation and withdrawal. He may not answer your calls or respond to your texts. He may pull away from the brotherhood, from the very community that he needs most. This is not a sign of rejection; it can be a sign that he is in a deep battle with his own mind.
Checking In, The Right Way
This is where we come in. We must be our brothers’ keepers. During the month of September, I challenge you to reach out to the Black men in your network…the ones you haven’t heard from in a while, the ones who seem to be pulling back, the ones who you just have a feeling about.
Don’t be discouraged if he doesn’t answer the phone or return your calls. That is the moment when your call truly matters most. Don’t get upset or feel rejected. Instead, let your care be heard.
**Leave a simple voicemail message to let him know that you were thinking about him, and that you just wanted to reach out and say hello, and see how he was doing.
“Let me know if you need anything.” These simple words of support go a long way towards helping your brothers feel like their life matters, instead of getting upset about them not responding to your call. **
How You Can Help During the Month of September
- Reach Out: Take a moment to call or text a brother you haven’t connected with in a while.
- Listen Deeply: When you do connect, create a safe space for him to share without judgment.
- Be the Bridge: If a brother is struggling, encourage him to seek professional help. Offer to be a resource for him. You can also share 988 and 988lifeline.org as a suicide prevention resource.
Our mission at the Black Men Healing Lounge is to create a community where no man has to struggle alone. This September, let’s use our collective strength to be a source of light and hope for our brothers.
You are invited to join the September Wellness Journey in the Black Men Healing Lounge!
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