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This month is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and I would like to take a moment and destigmatize suicidal ideation.
Thoughts of hurting oneself affects all ages, genders and backgrounds. There is no reason to be ashamed of them. Suicidal thoughts are treatable and common conversation in the therapy settings. Talking about suicide does not mean you are dangerous. However, I know it is uncomfortable and maybe scary to talk about it with friends or family.
If you or someone you know is experiencing hopeless thoughts and feelings, the most important thing is it respond calmly and gently. Let the other person know that they are not alone and that people are available to help them. As a friend or family member, you do not need to be their therapist, but you can provide them with resources and give them options. For immediate risk, the best place to go is the ER to be assessed. An ER assessment does not always result in being admitted - often times they will work with people to find outpatient options. If it is not an emergency, the best thing to do is call a local therapist or use a resource such as LEAD's Text-A-Tip or NAMI.
With your help, we can shift the public's view of mental health and suicide. Together we can save lives. We need to continue to educate ourselves about mental health, unlearn old attitudes about the stigma of suicide, and become familiar with local resources and organizations to help us if/when someone is in need.
We are here to help. If you or someone you know is in need of support please reach out to us for more resources.
Sincerely,
Audrey
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