National Suicide Prevention Month: A Time to Support One Another

09/17/2024 by Taylor Holston

September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a great time to come together as a community and talk more openly about mental health. Suicide affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and demographics, making it a critical issue for us to address. By promoting open conversations and offering resources for those in need, we can help prevent suicide by encouraging individuals to seek the help they deserve.

The Importance of Suicide Prevention

In the United States, over 45,000 deaths each year are attributed to suicide. That equates to one death every 11 minutes. It is a leading cause of death among young people between the ages of 15 and 24 and is much more common among men. While males make up 50% of the nation’s population, they make up nearly 80% of suicides.

Suicide is a complex issue with many contributing factors, but one thing is clear: it is preventable. By learning to recognize the warning signs and providing appropriate support, we can help save lives. This is why National Suicide Prevention Month is so important—it’s a time to let people know that help is available and that they are not alone in their struggles.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

One of the key aspects of suicide prevention is recognizing the warning signs that someone may be at risk. While not everyone will show obvious signs, there are some common indicators that someone may be struggling with suicidal thoughts:

• Talk of suicide or self-harm: Statements like “I wish I were dead” or “I can’t take this anymore” should always be taken seriously.
• Withdrawing from friends and family: If someone suddenly pulls away from social connections, this could indicate feeling overwhelmed or hopeless.
• Increased substance use: Turning to drugs or alcohol to cope with emotional pain can be a sign that someone is struggling.
• Changes in mood or behavior: If a person becomes unusually sad, anxious, angry, or irritable, this may be a warning sign.
• Giving away belongings: When someone starts giving away cherished items or making arrangements for their affairs, it can be a sign they are preparing for suicide.

It’s important to note that these signs can vary from person to person. If you notice any of these behaviors in someone you care about, please reach out and offer support.

How to Offer Support

If you believe someone may be at risk for suicide, it’s crucial to approach the situation with care and empathy. Here are some steps you can take to offer support:

• Start a conversation: Begin by expressing your concern in a non-judgmental way. You might say, “I’ve noticed you’ve been feeling down lately, and I’m worried about you. Is there anything you would like to talk about?”
• Listen without judgment: Give the person a safe space to talk about their feelings. Avoid offering quick fixes or dismissing their concerns. Instead, focus on actively listening and validating their emotions.
• Encourage professional help: Suggest they talk to a mental health professional, like a behavioral health provider. You can offer to help them find resources or make an appointment if they feel overwhelmed.
• Check-in on them often: Continue to check in with the person and let them know that you’re there for them. If they seem like they are in immediate danger, contact emergency services or take them to the nearest emergency room.

Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health and Suicide

One of the most significant barriers to suicide prevention is the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Many people feel ashamed or embarrassed to talk about their struggles, which can prevent them from seeking help. National Suicide Prevention Month is an opportunity to break down these barriers by encouraging open and honest conversations about mental health.

At North Country HealthCare, we are committed to creating a supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable discussing their mental health. We believe that mental health is just as important as physical health and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. That’s why we offer behavioral health services in all of the communities we serve, both in-person and via telehealth. We’re here to help you navigate life’s challenges and find the support you need.

You can also utilize the nationwide 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. Doing this will connect you with a trained crisis counselor who can provide support.

National Suicide Prevention Month reminds us that we all have a role to play in preventing suicide and supporting each other through difficult times. At North Country HealthCare, we are here for you. Please reach out if you or someone you know could benefit from our services. Together, we can make a difference.

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