|
“No, you aren’t alone. Yes, we all feel this way sometimes. No, you won’t always feel like this. Yes, the world is a better place with you in it.”
– Unknown
This is the time of year when we prepare to celebrate – the upcoming holidays are times for family, food, and friendships. But for many, particularly those experiencing mental health challenges, this is a time that may intensify feelings of depression, anxiety, and sadness.
But contrary to the notion that the incidence of suicide increases around the winter holidays, springtime is when peak rates of suicide occur. In fact, most people with suicidal thoughts may feel better when visits with relatives and celebrations occur.
But in the United States, over 30,000 people die by suicide annually, and the rate of attempted suicide is much higher – estimated to be one attempted suicide per minute.
This month, Coffee with Chrysalis hosted Kristi Kerner, Executive Director, and Alex Rohn, Officer of Outreach and Support from Mindspring Mental Health Alliance for a presentation on suicide prevention. Specifically, they discussed that research shows talking about suicide is one of the best ways to prevent it.
Mindspring is a local organization (and Chrysalis grant partner) that provides free mental health education, support, and advocacy programs for a variety of audiences. From individual community members, businesses, public and private agencies, and health providers, Mindspring is a strong expert and resource.
Mindspring also offers a number of events and webinars that are free to join, ranging from intergenerational trauma to social anxiety to antisocial personality disorder. You’ll also find listings for local and national services, informational articles, and quick-reference (“critical situation”) cards in cases of crisis and awareness.
The Iowa Chapter for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is planning local activities on Saturday, November 23 in recognition of International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day to bring together friends and families who have lost someone to suicide.
If you or someone you know is experiencing mental-health related distress, contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, or online at 988Lifeline.org.
| 
