Suicide Prevention Awareness Month You are not alone

Heather Ainsley
ECB Publishing, Inc.

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or is in a mental health crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat online at 988lifeline.com to reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You are not alone.
Suicide is among the leading cases of death in America. In 2020 alone, suicide was the 12th leading cause of death for all ages, changing from the 10th leading cause in 2019 due to the emergence of COVID-19 as well as the increase of deaths caused by chronic liver disease and cirrhosis. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), suicide is the second leading cause of death in people aged 10-34 and the fifth leading cause in people aged 35-54. Suicide is death caused by injuring oneself with the intent to die. There are many reasons that individuals may feel compelled to attempt or commit suicide, and suicidal thoughts can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race or background.
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and was first declared in 2008. This month is a time to acknowledge those affected by suicide, raise awareness and connect individuals with suicidal thoughts to treatment services. Suicide is a stigmatized and often taboo subject, and suicide prevention efforts aim to shift public perception in an attempt to spread information, resources and hope to people affected by suicide or those struggling with suicidal ideation. Suicidal ideation refers to thinking about, considering or planning suicide. This month is commonly symbolized with a purple and turquoise ribbon, which serves as a reminder that suicide is an issue that needs to be discussed in order to be prevented.
Suicidal ideation can be brought on by any number of causes, including mental health problems, bullying or discrimination, various types of abuse, grief or bereavement, the end of a relationship, long term physical pain or ailments, adjusting to an overwhelming change such as retirement, financial concerns, housing issues, isolation or loneliness, feelings of inadequacy or failure, addiction and substance abuse, pregnancy, childbirth or postnatal depression, doubts about sexual or gender identity, cultural pressure such as forced marriage and familial expectations, and other forms of trauma. Suicidal individuals may not even be able to pinpoint the source of their suicidal thoughts, and this often leads them to believe that there is no solution, but with support, anyone can overcome and cope with these feelings.
Additionally, some medications can have the adverse side effect of causing suicidal thoughts or actions. These medications include antidepressants, mood stabilizers and antipsychotic medications. If you are taking any psychiatric medicine and experience suicidal thoughts, contact your physician as soon as possible.
Research shows that men are about four times more likely than women to take their own lives, although the reasons for this are unclear. Men who experience suicidal ideation may feel pressured to hide or bottle up emotions, keep thoughts and feelings to themselves, and may feel as if seeking help or support will make them appear weak. Men who are struggling with suicidal ideation should seek out supportive networks of friends, family and co-workers who encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings openly. Support groups can also be a great asset to finding outside supportive connections.
Suicidal thoughts and actions are often an absolute last resort. Many people struggling with suicidal ideation may not be able to see an end to the emotional or physical turmoil they are experiencing and are seeking relief from their pain or struggle. Many suicidal people may feel afraid or confused by these emotions and may even be overwhelmed or ashamed of their suicidal thoughts. This fear and shame may prevent them from reaching out to people in their lives or from seeking help when they need it the most.
If someone approaches you about their suicidal thoughts or feelings, refrain from criticizing or judging them, or lashing out in frustration or anger. Approach them with empathy and compassion, and let them know that you are listening and are taking them seriously. In your own way, reassure them that you are there with them and that you care about them. Encourage them to keep talking and really listen to what they are saying to you. Remain calm, and inform them that help is available to them, and that these suicidal feelings are a signal that it is time to speak to a mental health professional. Try not to pressure them, and make sure to let them know that they can take a break if the conversation becomes too difficult for them. Remind them that you will continue to be there for them and you are glad that they reached out. Some gentle ways of recommending that someone seek professional help are:
“I hear that you are struggling, and I think it would really be helpful for you to talk to someone who can help you get through this.”
“You know, therapy isn't just for serious, 'clinical' problems. It can help any of us process any challenges we're facing, and we all face serious stuff sometimes.”
“I really think that talking to someone can help you gain some perspective and keep things from getting worse.”
Taking the initial step towards seeking help can be intimidating. Consider offering to help them in whatever ways you feel comfortable with. This could look like calling an insurance or mental health professional for them, sitting beside them while they call a professional themselves, looking up information on support networks together, or offering to drive or walk with them to their appointments.
If they refuse help, be patient and try not to push too hard. Remember that suicidal thoughts do not mean that your friend or loved one is in immediate danger. However, if they are presently self harming or have indicated that they are about to, stay with them and dial 911.
For veterans experiencing suicidal thoughts or feelings, the Veterans Crisis Line connects service members and veterans in crisis, as well as their family members and friends, with qualified Department of Veteran’s Affairs (VA) responders through a confidential toll-free hotline, online chat, or text messaging service. To contact them, dial (1-800)273-8255 and press one to speak to someone or send a text message to 838255 to connect with a VA responder.
If you personally are experiencing suicidal thoughts or feelings, understand that you are not alone. You may feel upset, sad, angry, or numb and may feel as if these feelings will never end. But it is important to remember that they cannot and will not last indefinitely. Like all feelings, these ones will pass. Reach out to a trusted friend or person in your life. If you don't know who to speak to, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text TALK to 741741 to text with a trained crisis counselor from the Crisis Text Line for free, 24/7. You are not alone.