September 10th is World Suicide Prevention Day and, with a number of individuals struggling with depression, ideation, and other mental health conditions, spreading awareness is critical. Despite efforts for suicide prevention, millions are continually struggling. So, what can we do about it? For starters, we can educate ourselves, learn to show compassion to everyone we encounter, and discuss our personal concerns with a professional. It’s also necessary to acknowledge the connection between suicide and mental health and where substance use comes into the equation.
Despite the fears surrounding the reality of suicide, help and resources are available. If you’re struggling with substance use, mental health, and suicidal ideation, contact West Coast Recovery Centers today. Our program uses traditional and holistic methods to help clients heal and create a better life for themselves. Call or visit our website to start this healing journey today!
Important Things to Know About Suicide
Unfortunately, the United States has been in a crippling mental health crisis for decades. Various professionals theorize the causation of this crisis. At the end of the day, it’s hard to say why so many people are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use disorder (SUD), and several other mental and psychiatric conditions. However, what we do know is that millions of lives are ruined every day because of untreated mental health conditions. Despite best efforts, you can never spread too much awareness.
The topic of suicide can be triggering for some and troubling for many, but it’s necessary to be informed for our sake and the sake of our loved ones. Before diving in, let’s better define and differentiate between suicide, an attempt, and ideation. According to The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), the following definitions are provided:
- Suicide: Death by “self-directed injurious behavior with intent to die as a result of the behaviors.”
- A suicide attempt: Non-fatal and self-directed behavior “with intent to die as a result of the behavior,” though an attempt may or may not cause injury depending on many factors.
- Suicidal ideation: Experiencing intense thoughts of suicide or even considering and planning suicide.
Unfortunately, there is a direct correlation between suicide and conditions like depression or SUD. Research indicates that mental health conditions such as those can lead to an increased risk of suicide. That’s why it’s critical to learn more about the warning signs of suicidal ideations or behavior, which may include:
- Intentional self-isolation
- Discussing death
- Erratic mood swings
- Extreme anxiousness
- Changes in appetite
- Disrupted sleep patterns
- Excessive substance use
- Reckless behavior
- Expressing feelings of hopelessness
- Psychosis symptoms
Seek professional help immediately if you or someone love is exhibiting any of the signs above. With that, let’s consider some things people can do to fight suicidal thoughts or ideations.
Fighting Suicidal Thoughts and Ideations
In 2021, suicide was the eleventh leading cause of death, claiming over 48,100 lives nationwide. That’s why suicide prevention is critical, and learning how to combat these thoughts is vital. Overcoming suicidal thoughts, or any mental health issues, takes time, but it is possible. Some ways you can overcome these thoughts include:
- Seeking professional help and speaking with a therapist
- Carving out time and prioritizing self-care
- Practicing mindfulness through meditation, prayer, or journaling
- Prioritizing sleep and creating a healthy, consistent sleep schedule
- Staying connected with friends, family, and loved ones regularly
- Reaching out to a support system during difficult times
- Moving your body regularly by finding an activity you enjoy
- Doing more things that bring you joy, such as pursuing hobbies or creative projects
- Involving yourself with social groups or local community events
- Learning to find a healthy balance between rest and productivity day-to-day
Suicide Prevention Resources
Another way to fight against suicidal thoughts is by equipping yourself with the various resources available to you. For example, one of the most well-known suicide prevention tools individuals can access nationwide is the national suicide and crisis lifeline. Individuals in crisis can receive free, confidential support 24/7 by texting or calling 988.
The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is an excellent tool because it connects people struggling with suicide, mental health, or substance use crises with qualified counselors. From there, individuals can seek further help and additional resources. By working with a professional, individuals can create a plan that can help them heal from whatever is causing them to consider suicide.
How Can You Spread Awareness This Suicide Prevention Day?
The most important way to spread suicide prevention awareness is to create a dialogue surrounding the topic. That means having honest conversations with your children, telling your spouse everything you’re thinking, and checking in with friends who are isolating themselves. Having these conversations is critical to reducing the stigmas surrounding suicide and empowering people to seek help without shame.
Consider conducting further research to learn more about suicide prevention and how you can spread awareness while gearing up for September 10th. For those struggling with their mental health and substance use, we encourage you to seek treatment. Be proactive and consider treatment with West Coast Recovery Centers today.
Professionals in the mental health field are always discussing ways to spread more awareness about the dangers and realities of suicide. Suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States, and despite national efforts for suicide prevention, the rates are continually alarming. Some ways to spread awareness, especially with World Suicide Prevention Day fast approaching on September 20th, is to educate ourselves on the dangers, become equipped with tools and resources, and create open dialogues with others about the subject in the hopes of reducing stigma and increasing awareness. To learn more or to seek treatment for personal mental health struggles of your own, contact West Coast Recovery Centers at (760) 492-6509 today.