September is Suicide Prevention Month. This means that it is essential to learn about mental health issues that are on the rise. It is also time to listen, offer help, eliminate stigmas about suicidal thoughts, and seek help. It is essential to know that suicide is on the rise among young people aged 15-24, as are incidents of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Let’s learn how to identify the risk factors and warning signs:
- Feeling depressed/hopeless
- Low energy
- Difficulty concentrating
- Loss of interest
- Loss of an important relationship
- Previous suicide attempts
- Feelings of isolation and/or withdrawal
- Talking or joking about suicide or death
- Sadness/crying
- Careless, high-risk behaviors.
There’s always someone to talk to at 988 that routes you to speak with professionals about suicide and crisis that you maybe experiencing.
There is no shame in seeking help for mental concerns. Taking care of yourselves and getting help from professional needs to be a priority. If it feels important, then it is important no matter what. Listen openly, without judgment.
This month is important to take the time out to listen you never know when someone may need your help. Let’s be that friend to check in on each other and ask the questions. Are you ok? How can I help you? You matter!!!! Suicide prevention is a way WE can ALL saves lives.
Mechelle Taylor, AMFT