September 10th, 2018 Suicide Prevention Day
September 10
th
is Suicide Prevention Day. It is imperative to provide awareness regarding suicide and what to look for the sake of supporting those who are struggling as well as a means in combating the stigma associated with mental health. On average we have 40,000 to 60,000 thoughts in a day (Happify, 2018) and for some people having suicidal thoughts are a part of those. On the outside, however, friends and family may not be aware of the extent to these thoughts.
- A loss of interest in personal activities or hobbies
- withdrawing or isolating more than usual
- comments of hopelessness or helplessness
- an increase in substance use
- doing reckless behaviour
If you think someone you know may be contemplating suicide it is important to ask them by using the specific term “suicide”. When we create space for conversations regarding suicide, feelings of shame become reduced and more importantly we are able to learn if an individual is feeling suicidal and to what extent. Thoughts of suicide signify the emotional and sometimes physical pain that a person is experiencing and they are looking for a way for this pain to end.
There are ways to cope with the pain such as:
Bringing exercise like yoga or going for a walk into your daily routine
Focusing on reasons for living such as pets, family and friends
Focusing on potential goals and plans.
Often those who are struggling with suicidal thoughts need support in order to reach out to various resources such as:
·
calling 1-866-299-7447
·
texting 741-741 between the hours of 2pm and 2am
·
downloading the Be Safe app
·
come to Single Session on 20 Emma Street every Wednesday from 8:30-11AM and 3:30-6PM.
·
If you feel that a person is in need of immediate support
call 911 or go to the emergency department.
