Today is World Suicide Prevention Day. This year’s theme is “Sharing Hope Through Action.” We can all use a little hope! Every year, more than 700,000 people lose their lives to suicide, which translates into more than one person every 40 seconds, accounting for about 1.3% of all global deaths.*
This is a problem on a global scale; one of the ways we can help is by talking about it. For this blog, I will be sharing tips to improve mental health and ways you can spot someone you love struggling. People who are struggling with mental health can be good at hiding the signs. If you look for certain signs, though, you can offer support, give guidance, and help that person feel seen.
When I was struggling with mental health, my sleep suffered. I have been coined the “queen of sleep” by my family and friends. It’s true, but when I am dealing with emotions or life challenges, it takes me longer to sleep. I toss and turn, with no sleep in sight.
I was quicker to anger and did not enjoy the things I used to. These are signs of someone struggling mentally. Withdrawing from friends and family is a big sign of struggle; past traumas and substance abuse can lead to worsening mental health issues if untreated.
We mentioned acts of kindness in our previous blog, and sharing acts of kindness is an essential way to lift someone’s spirits. This parallels the theme of this year: extending compassion and grace to others in need. When was the last time you showed compassion to someone?
Depression is a silent killer, with no one knowing what you are going through. Sharing a latte or offering to hang out with a friend at lunch could be the highlight of their day. Untreated depression and bipolar disorders lead to suicide. There is hope. Your challenges are not the end of the road.
TIPS
- Limit social media. There is a reason they call it doom scrolling. Seeing friends and celebrities have a better life than you (it’s a lie, btw) does not help your mental health. If you want to be online, try a meditation website. Listen to uplifting podcasts, or watch motivational videos on YouTube. The internet is vast; just don’t wallow in the doom.
- Community. Join a community event. There are groups available that help heal your mental health concerns. It’s very easy to withdraw; when you get that feeling, go for a walk. Maybe grab lunch at the cafe down the street instead of clicking on DoorDash. Action helps you get through a suicidal thought. Suicidal thoughts can be interrupted. Pretty soon your “I want to withdraw” moment moves your day in a better direction.
- Resources. 988 is available by phone or text. If you do not feel like you are ready to share with a friend, share with an experienced professional. There are other platforms such as Better Help and Alma that offers help as well. Remember, “hope” is your mantra.
*View more information about World Suicide Prevention Day at https://geimshospital.com/blog/world-suicide-prevention-day/#:~:text=What%20is%20the%20focus%20of,timely%20support%20in%20suicide%20prevention.
