September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

In a recent study conducted in June by the CDC, 11 percent of respondents reported having seriously considered suicide in the 30 days before completing the survey, with minorities, unpaid adult caregivers, essential workers, and young adults between 18 and 24 being disproportionately affected. The study also revealed that more than 26 percent reported symptoms of trauma and stressor-related disorders because of the pandemic. In this article, we want to equip you with a few ways in which you can help prevent suicide and support people struggling with suicidal thoughts.

1. Speak Up

If you notice a person is exhibiting warning signs associated with suicide, such as self-destructive behavior, talking about death or dying, withdrawing from others, or even a sudden sense of calm after experiencing extreme depression, speak up. You could be wrong, but you could also save a life, so take a chance and ask them directly if they are experiencing suicidal thoughts.

2.  Respond Quickly to Crisis

There are different levels of suicidal risk, but the situations that require immediate action are when someone has gone as far as to create a suicide plan, a way to do it, a time to do it, and are intent on following through with their plans. In situations where the risk level is severe, call 911, a crisis center, or take them to the emergency room yourself.

3.  Get Engaged for Support

Suicide is a scary topic to address. We may feel angry at those who have these thoughts, afraid, or lack confidence in how to respond. Remember that feeling loved and not alone are major deterrents to suicide. So, be proactive, listen without judgment, come alongside to bring your friend to get professional help, and keep following up on their treatment and encouraging progress.

 The CDC estimates that in the United States, there is one death by suicide every 12 minutes. While there are many stigmas surrounding suicide and many who suffer from suicidal ideation may be reluctant to speak out, we should strive to be open and listen carefully to the struggles people are facing, speak up, and act quickly to prevent more suicides from occurring.

Resources:

by Contributing Wellspring Writer

This week's podcast episodes:

This two part podcast series can equip you to be aware of and react to those that are considering suicide as a way out of the pain that they are currently experiencing. Both episodes are hosted by Wellspring's Lindsey Steffen, LMHC.

Jessica Spivey