Every September, we observe Suicide Prevention Month to raise awareness about this heartbreaking mental health issue that claims hundreds of thousands of lives each year. Even though suicide awareness has received significant attention in recent years, it’s still not talked about as much as it needs to be — and there’s still much stigma around it.
For us at Coleman, suicide prevention is an ongoing task. While we appreciate events like Suicide Prevention Month that raise awareness about this critical issue, we realize that these events aren’t enough. Preventing suicide means spreading awareness year round and continually sharing resources so that people know help is always available. Read on to learn more about what suicide awareness actually involves and how it assists prevention efforts.
Why Suicide Prevention Matters
Suicide prevention matters so much because suicide is preventable — yet it still happens. Prevention is the only cure for suicide, so sharing resources and having conversations can save lives. One survey found that 88% of suicidal adults who called 988 said the lifeline saved their lives. Additionally, therapy and mental health care have been demonstrated to reduce suicide rates. The more people in need are connected to resources they need, the more lives can be saved.
Common Misconceptions About Suicide Prevention
Suicide prevention is so necessary, but there are several misconceptions around it that make people hesitant to act.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that talking about suicide will lead to or encourage thoughts of suicide. However, avoiding talking about suicide can isolate people with suicidal thoughts, and it also upholds the stigma around suicide. Talking openly about suicide can help meet people where they are and give those who are struggling an avenue to express themselves and find help.
Another huge misconception is that you need to be a professional to talk to someone who might be having suicidal thoughts. While it’s good to exercise care in how you address the topic, you don’t need to be a trained mental health expert to start a dialogue and help those in your life who could be struggling. Of course, people with suicidal thoughts can always benefit from talking to mental health professionals, but they might not be able to or want to. This is why being open to discussing suicide and providing support is so critical.
How Awareness Helps Suicide Prevention Efforts in Ohio
There are lots of suicide resources out there — many of which are local to Ohio — but these resources don’t always connect with the people who need them most. As a result, many people who struggle with suicidal thoughts don’t know about all the options that are available to them, and this is a problem only awareness can solve. For instance, if you know about the 988 Lifeline, then you can recommend it to people who are thinking about suicide. More people who are aware of suicide prevention resources means connecting more people to those resources and ultimately saving more lives.
Warning Signs and Risk Factors Everyone Should Know to Prevent Suicide
One of the most important aspects of suicide prevention is knowing some key suicide risk factors. These behaviors aren’t always indicative of suicidal ideation, but they should be lovingly addressed in case they are indicative.
These signs include:
- Consistent feelings of hopelessness and/or worthlessness
- Talking about being a burden
- Isolating from social and leisure activities
- Dramatic changes in sleep and/or appetite
- Increased substance use
- Having mood swings or extreme emotions
How to Support a Loved One Through Suicide Prevention
If there’s someone in your life who might be suicidal, the first step is to start a conversation with them. Listen to them, hear what they need, and help connect them to resources that can support them. Sometimes, asking “are you really okay?” is all it takes for the floodgates to open up, and sometimes people will need more consistent check-ins. Don’t be afraid to encourage professional help and provide crisis resources.
Suicide Prevention Resources and Hotlines
Suicide prevention helps the most when people are aware of it. With that in mind, here are some vital suicide prevention resources to be aware of:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
- Crisis Text Line
- The Trevor Project Crisis Support for LBGTQ+ Youth
- National Alliance on Mental Illness Toolkit
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Take the Next Step in Suicide Prevention
At Coleman, we’re here to be a beacon of light for anyone who feels stuck in the dark. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, make an appointment with a Coleman professional – or share the link with someone who needs it.