September 2025 Newsletter

Issue 6 Volume 2 September 2025

September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness, spread hope, and promote action around one of the most urgent mental health issues of our time.

September is also the month our beautiful daughter Megan would be turning 32 years old, had she not died by suicide in January 2020. We ask ourselves “why?" constantly, yet there are no answers. Meg’s Legacy of Hope was created so others do not have to travel this path of confusion, sadness, guilt, anger, and shame that suicide survivors experience.

We can all make a difference by starting a conversation and getting involved. Suicide Prevention Month reminds us that talking about suicide isn’t harmful — silence is. One honest conversation can be a turning point in someone’s life.

Ask questions and listen. Breaking the stigma can save lives.

Best,

Larry Butz

Back to School

Dr. Beth Sherman, Psy.D.

With the new school year underway, it's important to recognize that seasonal trends in suicide among individuals aged 15 to 24 has an alarming increase that aligns with the return to school, starting in August and September with a peak in October.

Academic and social pressures can significantly impact mental health during this time. It is critical that parents and educators remain especially alert and attentive to the well-being of teens and young adults during these vulnerable months.

Keeping open lines of communication with students can save lives. Studies show that people who are having thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone asks about them in a caring way.

WARNING SIGNS OF SUICIDE – BE VIGILANT

Have you ever been concerned that a person may be suicidal?

One important sign to watch for when you're concerned someone may be suicidal is a noticeable change in behavior—or the emergence of entirely new actions or behaviors. These behavioral changes are especially concerning if they follow a painful event, significant loss, or major life change. Most people who take their lives exhibit one or more warning signs, either through what they say or what they do.

CALL/TEXT 988 - Resource for Mental Emergencies

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call 988 or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Confidential, judgment-free support is available to anyone 24/7.

Visit our website for

More Resources

========== SEPTEMBER EVENTS ==========

September:

Cooper's Hawk

Cooper's Hawk in Kildeer will donate 50% of all dine-in wine bottle proceeds to Meg's Legacy every Wednesday from 5-7 pm in September. So grateful for this community support!

More Info

Phase 3

Car Show

We are thankful to Phase Three Brewing Company for supporting Meg’s Legacy during their first annual car show on Sept 6th.

More Info

September 8th

Meg’s Legacy’s annual fundraiser is next week!

Attendees are generously supporting mental health programs at this fun-filled golf, dinner and auction.

More Info

3rd Grant Cycle Open

Meg’s Legacy announced the opening of our 2025 grant cycle with $250,000 in funding available for Illinois-based organizations dedicated to providing mental health services.

More Info

140 Oakwood Road

Lake Zurich, IL 60047

(847) 540-8534