By Jared Harding Wilson
September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about mental health, support those who are struggling, and honor those we’ve lost. For me, this month carries a heavy weight. Thirteen years ago, I lost my brother Louie to suicide, and the pain of missing him still cuts deep. Even so, I hold tight to the gratitude I feel for the beautiful memories we shared. Louie was a vibrant soul, full of humor and heart, and those moments we spent together keep his spirit alive in me.
One of my favorite memories with my little brother was after I returned from my two-year mission to Chile 🇨🇱 with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I was finding my footing back home, and Louie, who was managing a Papa John’s at the time, got me a job delivering pizzas. 🍕 It was such a simple thing—driving around, dropping off orders—but it meant everything to work side by side with my brother. We’d laugh, swap stories, and just enjoy being together every day. Those shifts were a gift, a chance to see his smile and feel his presence. Even now, 13 years later, I miss him dearly, but those memories are a light in the darkness.
If you’re wondering how to help prevent suicide, here’s some advice from my heart: If you suspect someone you care about might be struggling with suicidal thoughts, don’t shy away—ask them directly. It’s not easy, but it’s so important. If they say they’re okay, you’ve still shown you care. If they say yes, gently ask if they’re thinking about hurting themselves. If they are, offer to help them find support, like calling the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or connecting with a professional. I do this with a close friend I’ve adopted as a brother, who sometimes battles suicidal thoughts. We talk openly about it, and I check in regularly to make sure he’s doing okay. Those conversations, even when they’re hard, build a lifeline of trust and care.
One organization making a difference is Promise2Live.org, which hands out “Pocket Hug” medallions 🪙 to remind people they have reasons to stay alive. These coins carry a powerful message: on the front, they’re labeled “Pocket Hug” with the website Promise2Live.org. On the back, they urge, “Call or text 988 if you are struggling,” encircling the words, “When times are tough, and you don’t know what to do, here is a hug from me to you.” It’s a small, tangible reminder that someone cares, that you are wanted and remembered.
As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I’ve found comfort in the teachings of our leaders on this sensitive topic. President Russell M. Nelson once said, “The Lord loves effort, and effort brings rewards. We keep practicing. We keep striving. And we keep trusting in the Lord’s infinite Atonement.” This reminds me that we don’t know the full hearts of those who struggle—only Jesus does. There is always hope for eternal life, no matter the challenges faced here. This perspective gives me peace when I think of Louie.
In our faith, we have a sacred way to honor and stay connected to loved ones who’ve passed: temple work. A few years after Lou’s death, I felt ready to complete his temple ordinances. I included our whole family in the process, and we celebrated afterward with foods he loved—pizza, of course, and other dishes that brought back memories of him. In the Provo City Center Temple, I had a profound experience, feeling my brother’s presence beyond the veil. It was a moment of peace, a confirmation that love endures beyond this life.
To anyone struggling: You are enough. You are loved. Reach out, hold on, and know there’s hope. And for those who’ve lost someone, like I lost my brother, keep their memory alive through love, service, and the small moments that matter.
What’s a message of hope or a small gesture that’s helped you or someone you know through a tough time? Share it below to uplift others.
Photos by Jared Harding Wilson. All rights reserved.
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