Recovery Month and Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

August 27, 2026 — People and Internal Operations

September is Recovery Month and Suicide Awareness Month

September is a month for celebrating our mental health, building awareness and promoting hope and recovery as we mark both Recovery Month and Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. The goal of suicide prevention is to reduce factors that increase risk and increase factors that promote resilience. Recovery Month celebrates the gains made by those in recovery from mental illness.

If you, a family member or a team member are struggling with feelings or emotions that interfere with daily life, please reach out. This month, the EAP is committed to building awareness, resilience and support for those who are struggling, as well as celebrating those who have made gains in their lives and found recovery. Throughout September, we will have panel discussions with experts, advocates and mental health professionals to discuss suicide prevention and celebrate recovery.

Tip of the Month:

If you’re struggling, it’s OK to ask for help.

Many of us struggle with fear that we will be a burden if we reach out for help. If you’ve ever felt that way, try to give yourself some compassion. How would you feel if someone reached out to you for help? You probably wouldn’t make them feel like they’re a burden, even if you’re not sure how to help. Try to treat yourself like you’d treat a friend.

Attend an upcoming Welltalk covering an array of topics:

• August 3, noon–1 p.m.: Finding the Courage to Reach Out
• August 10, noon–1 p.m.: The Things We Don't Say
• August 17, noon–1 p.m.: Life After Death — Healing After Loss
• August 24, noon–1 p.m.: Beyond Help — When Counseling Is Not Enough

Also, from 10–10:30 a.m. every Monday, Mindfulness Mondays are dedicated to supporting you with stress management techniques and mental health tips.

If you, a family member or a team member are struggling with mental health, know that help is available. The Miami-Dade Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers free, confidential resources to support mental health and emotional wellness. Our trained counselors provide assessments and access to both internal and external resources to help employees regain balance and thrive.

To schedule an appointment with an EAP counselor, call 305-375-3293 or email andres.gomez2@miamidade.gov. The EAP is available Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering virtual and on-site support.