Shara Smile, LLC Newsletter September 2025

Greetings this September,

I hope you’re finding ways to embrace the changing seasons, whether that means soaking in the last golden rays of summer or preparing for the cozy days of fall. September carries its own rhythm, and with it, a special significance I’d like to share with you.

Let’s Talk Suicide Prevention…
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. It is a time to pause, reflect, and remember that our lives — yours, mine, and those around us — hold incredible value. Yet for many, life can feel unbearably heavy.

If you have ever struggled with thoughts of hopelessness, loneliness, or feeling like a burden, please know this: These feelings are more common than many people realize, and talking about them is one of the most important steps toward healing.

In my own journey, there have been times when the weight of stress, grief, or self-doubt felt overwhelming. And while those moments did not define me, they reminded me of how deeply we all need connection, compassion, and a safe space to be honest about our pain.

Steps We Can All Take for Suicide Prevention:

Reach Out
If you notice a friend or loved one withdrawing, ask how they are doing. A simple, “I’ve noticed you seem a little down. Do you want to talk?” can open the door.

Listen Without Judgment
You do not need to fix everything. Sometimes just listening and sitting with someone in their pain is enough.

Encourage Professional Help
Remind them that therapy, counseling, or even talking with a primary care doctor can help. Professional support can make a life-saving difference.

Know the Warning Signs
Talking about wanting to die, feeling hopeless, withdrawing from friends or family, changes in sleep or mood, or giving away belongings can all be signals someone needs help.

Offer Resources:

• Call or Text 988 and press 0 to connect with a local crisis counselor, available 24/7.
• Call 1 855 274 7471 for the Tennessee Statewide Crisis Line, available 24/7.
• Text “TN” to 741741 to connect instantly with a trained crisis counselor.
• Explore the 2024 2025 Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Services Directory, a comprehensive statewide guide to local resources, created by the Tennessee Suicide Prevention Network (TSPN), the Department of Health, and KidCentral.
• Connect with TSPN, a statewide network offering training, resources, awareness programs, and postvention services. They are building community resilience and empowerment across Tennessee.
  

Growing Together
Our practice continues to grow so we can support more people through life’s hardest seasons. We are committed to being a safe place where conversations about mental health, even the most difficult ones, are welcomed with compassion and care.

This month, I invite you to check in with yourself and with those around you. A text, a call, a cup of coffee, or even just a smile can be the bridge someone needs to feel less alone.

Until next time…
Take care of your heart. Offer kindness freely. And remember: you matter more than you know!

With warmth and hope,
Shara Carter
Shara Smile, LLC
LPC MHSP, NCC | Founder |