September is suicide prevention month. Suicide is a big deal, especially in America, as over 49,000 people committed suicide in 2022. It’s important to reach out to someone when having feelings of suicide and self harm. Would you know how to help someone who is having these thoughts?
Big signs of suicide include:
- Beginning harmful acts such as smoking, vaping, drinking alcohol, or doing dangerous stunts
- Giving away prized possessions to friends or family
- Isolating or pulling away from people
- Changing eating or sleeping patterns
If you suspect a friend may be depressed, you can help by:
- Asking about their thoughts to help them feel heard and reduce suicidal ideation
- Listening without judgment
- Staying connected to their support system
- Checking on them to make sure they are not getting any worse
If someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, use the 988 hotline or reach out to a counselor. To learn more about suicide prevention go to the website: https://988lifeline.org/promote-national-suicide-prevention-month/
Sites used:
https://988lifeline.org/promote-national-suicide-prevention-month/
https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/facts/data.html
https://sprc.org/warning-signs-for-suicide/
