Suicide Prevention: Understanding, Empathy, and Action

Provided by Reagan Flamboe, LPC-MH

Suicide Prevention: Understanding, Empathy, and Action

Suicide is a global public health issue that deeply affects individuals, families, and communities. With more than 700,000 people dying by suicide every year, suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among 10-14 Y/O it is clear that this is a crisis we must address urgently and compassionately. Suicide prevention involves breaking down stigmas, offering support, and implementing evidence-based strategies to save lives.

The Importance of Awareness

One of the most significant challenges in preventing suicide is the stigma surrounding mental health. Many people who experience suicidal thoughts feel ashamed to seek help, fearing judgment or misunderstanding. Raising awareness about mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and trauma, which are often linked to suicidal behavior, can help normalize these conversations. Education empowers individuals to recognize the signs of distress in themselves or others and respond with empathy and support.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Suicidal thoughts rarely occur without warning. While every case is unique, some common signs include:

• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no purpose
• Expressing thoughts of being a burden to others
• Withdrawal from friends, family, and activities
• Drastic changes in mood or behavior
• Giving away possessions or saying goodbye
• Increased substance use

It’s crucial to take any mention of suicide seriously. Many people believe that asking someone if they are thinking about suicide might put the idea in their head, but research shows that asking directly can be a relief for someone struggling and can open the door to life-saving conversations.

How to Help Someone in Crisis

If someone you know is showing signs of suicidal ideation, it’s important to act quickly and with compassion. Here’s how you can help:

1. Listen without judgment: Allow the person to express their feelings without trying to “fix” their situation or offer unsolicited advice.
2. Ask direct questions: You can ask, “Are you thinking about suicide?” or “Do you have a plan to harm yourself?” These questions show that you care and that you’re taking them seriously.
3. Encourage professional help: Whether it’s talking to a counselor, therapist, or doctor, professional intervention is key. Offering to help them find resources or accompany them to appointments can ease their anxiety.
4. Be present: Check in regularly, offer emotional support, and let them know they aren’t alone. Just being there can make a difference.
5. Seek emergency help if needed: If someone has an immediate plan to harm themselves, call emergency services or a suicide prevention hotline. Do not leave them alone.

Creating a Supportive Environment

Communities, workplaces, and families all play a role in suicide prevention. By fostering environments that promote mental health, we can reduce the risk of suicide. This can be done by:

• Encouraging open dialogue: Normalize conversations around mental health to make people feel comfortable seeking help.
• Providing access to resources: Ensure that people know where to find mental health support, including therapy, hotlines, and support groups.
• Reducing access to means of self-harm: Research shows that limiting access to means like firearms or medications can significantly reduce suicide rates.

Self-Care and Seeking Help

For those struggling with suicidal thoughts, it’s essential to remember that help is available, and recovery is possible. Self-care can be a vital part of managing mental health. This includes:

• Talking to someone you trust about how you’re feeling.
• Engaging in physical activity, which can improve mood.
• Practicing mindfulness or meditation to reduce stress and anxiety.
• Seeking professional help from a mental health professional who can offer tailored support and therapy.

Crisis Resources

If you or someone you know is in crisis, don’t hesitate to reach out to these resources:

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

Northeastern Community Mental Health Center (Aberdeen and surrounding area):  605-225-1010

Calling the non-emergent line for the Aberdeen Police Department or the Brown County Sheriff’s office and requesting a “Welfare Check” on someone you are worried about or has made comments verbally, on social media platforms, or texted .  The number to call is 605-626-7911

If you have been having persistent suicidal ideation or depressive symptoms reach out to your therapists and as always, here at Conklin Clinics we offer Psychiatric medication management and Therapy services.