Suicide Awareness

Suicide has always been a heavy topic of discussion with a lot of negative stigmas behind it, but the mental health field is trying to keep the conversation open for those who might have lost loved ones or even for those thinking about taking their own life. September is dedicated to spreading awareness, talking about those hard feelings and emotions, and spreading hope, and community to those who have been affected. You are not alone.

Since the recent Covid-19 pandemic started, there has been an increase in suicidal deaths due to more people suffering from anxiety and depression from being in isolation for so long and the general hardships the pandemic has created for people worldwide. However, suicide is preventable. It is important to become educated about what signs to look out for in others and in yourself that might help prevent another suicidal death, such as:

●      Increased substance use/misuse

●      Previous suicide attempts/family history of suicide

●      Any expression of desire to die/having no reason to live/not having purpose

●      Indications of a mood disorder/intense mood changes

●      Having access to lethal means

●      Losses and other intense life stressors

●      History of trauma or abuse

●      Chronic physical illness or suffering with chronic pain

●  Changes in normal behaviors - becoming more withdrawn from others or making impulsive decisions

●      Making comments and feeling hopeless, helpless, and worthless

Now, when you notice some of these signs in a loved one or yourself, then what? There are many resources available for individuals of all ages to talk to a trained professional when in crisis, and you can remain anonymous.

●      24/7 Suicide Prevention Hotline 1(800) 273-8255

●      24/7 Crisis Text Line - text HOME to 741741

●      Always call 911 if there is a life-threatening emergency

Incorporating regular counseling sessions into your schedule can help build communication and problem-solving skills to help you deal with crises in the future.

It is a misconception that by talking to a loved one about suicide, it will put ideas in their head and push them in the direction toward that. As trained mental health professionals, we are taught that having an open conversation is part of prevention because it minimizes the shame the individual feels even if they are thinking about taking their own life. There is no shame admitting that life is hard, and you need help and support. That’s how the mental health community grows, information is shared, and help is given.