At the Steve Fund’s Family Corner, we are working to build a community where all families and their young people feel safe, seen, heard, celebrated, and fully supported. Throughout the year, we promote the mental health and emotional well-being of young people, especially those from underserved and under-represented communities. September is a particularly meaningful month for families to reflect on mental health and take action, as it brings focus to both National Suicide Prevention Month and Hispanic Heritage Month.
National Suicide Prevention Month
Each September, National Suicide Prevention Month reminds us of the critical importance of protecting young people against self-harm and creating safe emotional spaces where they can thrive. Parents and caregivers play a vital role in prevention. In Proactive Steps if Self Harm is Possible, you’ll find information on risk factors for suicide and self-harm, as well as protective strategies families can use to safeguard their young people.
Young women, especially girls from underserved and under-represented backgrounds, face unique challenges that can place them at higher risk of suicidal ideation. Supporting Young Women to Stay Safe, Get Help, and Find Well-Being explores these risks and provides strategies for families to strengthen support systems and disrupt unhealthy patterns.
Hispanic Heritage Month
Though we celebrate Hispanic/Latino culture all year, Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 to October 15) offers families the opportunity to celebrate the tremendous contributions of the Hispanic/Latino community while also learning from its cultural and psychological strengths. Honoring Hispanic/Latino Heritage and Mental Health highlights values and traditions that can bolster resilience and emotional well-being for all young people.
By bringing awareness to suicide prevention and celebrating cultural heritage, families can both protect and empower young people. We hope you find these resources helpful and that you will share them with your family, young person, and your community.
- Proactive Steps if Self Harm is Possible
- Supporting Young Women to Stay Safe, Get Help, and Find Well-Being
- Honoring Hispanic/Latino Heritage and Mental Health
Additional Resources
- Recognizing the Signs Your Young Person Needs Support in Stressful Times
- Supporting Your Teen Experiencing Mental Health Challenges
- Support Young Women to Stay Safe, Get Help, and Find Well-Being
- If Self-Harm is Possible, Be Proactive
- A Guide for Parents: Helping your teen balance academics and mental health
- A Guide for Parents & College Students: Navigating College Campus Support Systems
- Stress-Relieving Exercise: Give yourself a few minutes of calm by following your breath
- Parents Under Pressure: The U.S. Surgeon General Advisory on the Mental Health and Well-Being of Parents