September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time set aside to raise awareness, share potentially lifesaving resources and encourage more open conversations about mental health and suicide prevention.

Chattooga County Coroner Jeremy McElhaney is reminding local residents that help is available for anyone who may be struggling emotionally, experiencing a mental health crisis or having thoughts of suicide.

People can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The service connects callers and texters with trained crisis counselors who can provide support, listen without judgment and help determine what additional assistance may be needed.

Another option is the Crisis Text Line. Anyone needing support can text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.

McElhaney is encouraging residents to share the information with family members, friends, coworkers and others in the community so people know where to turn if they or someone they care about needs immediate help.

National Suicide Prevention Month is also intended to reduce the stigma that can sometimes keep people from talking about depression, anxiety, emotional distress and other mental health concerns.

Officials and advocates stress that warning signs should never be ignored and that simply checking on someone who seems to be struggling can make a difference.

For anyone in immediate danger, emergency help should be contacted right away. For those experiencing a crisis or needing someone to talk to, 988 is available around the clock.