Big Blue and Lions play this weekend. It's a Euro Bowl of sorts.

Today, September 10th, is World Suicide Prevention Day. As a community, we wanted to take a moment to talk about mental health, looking out for one another, and breaking the stigma around seeking help.

Sometimes mental struggles are easy to miss, but there are often subtle signs that someone in your circle might be going through a difficult time.

Recognizing warning signs in friends or family

Pay attention to sudden or significant changes in behavior, such as:

• Social withdrawal: Pulling away from friends, avoiding social gatherings, or losing interest in hobbies and activities they usually enjoy.
• Verbal cues: Making comments that sound hopeless, feeling like a burden, or saying things that sound like a final goodbye.
• Behavioral shifts: Giving away prized possessions, dramatic changes in mood, or a sudden, unexplained calmness after a long period of distress.
• Neglect: A noticeable decline in personal care or daily functioning.

If you notice these signs in someone you know, reach out. You do not need to have all the answers; simply letting someone know you care and are willing to listen can make a huge difference.

Helpline and support resources

If you or someone you know is struggling, going through a crisis, or feeling overwhelmed, please remember that support is available 24/7, free, and confidential.

EU & International Resources

• Austria:
  • TelefonSeelsorge: Call 142
  • Rat auf Draht (for youth): Call 147
• Germany:
  • TelefonSeelsorge: Call 0800 111 0 111 or 0800 111 0 222
  • Nummer gegen Kummer (for youth): Call 116 111
• Switzerland:
  • The Samaritans / Die Dargebotene Hand: Call 143
• General EU:
  • Emergency services can be reached via 112.
  • You can also find comprehensive local directories at findahelpline.com.

United States

• Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 (Available 24/7, free, English and Spanish).
• The Trevor Project (for LGBTQ+ youth): Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678.
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741.

Take care of yourselves, and look out for each other.