SPAN Newsletter: September 2026

SPAN Newsletter

September 2026

SPAN is bringing you the latest trainings, events, resources, and related news on suicide prevention in the Northern Virginia region. Please take a look at the offerings below, and feel free to reach out at suicidepreventionnva@fairfaxcounty.gov or take a look at our website https://www.suicidepreventionnva.org.

SPAN Highlights

Ask. Talk. Connect.

You don’t need to wait for the “right time” or the “perfect words” to ask for support or help someone else—it can all start with a simple check-in.

There’s no wrong time to:

Ask how someone is doing or if they have some time to chat. You don’t have to wait for a crisis to reach out. If someone is in crisis, ask direct questions like, Are you thinking about suicide? How can I help? These aren't easy questions, but studies show that asking someone if they are suicidal does not increase suicidal thoughts.
Talk, and really listen. Support them in person or on the phone. If they are in crisis, follow up once they are safe.
Connect them to a support system so they have a network to reach out to for help 24/7. Connect them with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988), 1-800-273-TALK (8255), the Crisis Text Line (741741), or trusted family members, friends, coaches, clergy, co-workers, or therapists.

Ordinary moments can save lives. Reach out and start the conversation today.

Find out more

Resources

988 Day is a national initiative dedicated to raising awareness about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and the importance of mental health and suicide prevention. The theme for 988 Day 2026 is 988 Reasons: Your reason is reason enough. The theme is a reminder that you don’t have to be in crisis to reach out to 988. Whatever you’re facing—big or small—your reason for seeking support is reason enough.

Access the Toolkit

SAMHSA'S 2026 Suicide Prevention Awareness Month Toolkit includes resources will cover every stage, from building awareness and connection before a crisis to supporting people through treatment, recovery and healing. Find social media shareables, virtual backgrounds, resources for faith communities, and more in the toolkit.

Access the Toolkit

Upcoming Events

Find Help At Your Local CSB

Each community has a Community Services Board (CSB), the public agency that provides services for people who have a mental illness, substance use disorders, and developmental disabilities. CSBs also provide Wellness and Prevention initiatives, including trainings such as ACE Interface (Adverse Childhood Experiences and Resiliency), Mental Health First Aid, REVIVE, and suicide prevention. They also can provide or connect you to resources such as locking medication boxes and drug disposal bags.

To get services, get trained, and learn more, connect with your local CSB. Click each location below to go to the local CSB website.

Prince William County

Check out the SPAN website for upcoming events, resources, and information. Share with your community partners, family, and friends!

SPAN Website

suicidepreventionnva@fairfaxcounty.gov

https://www.suicidepreventionnva.org/