Suicide Prevention:
Suicide Prevention:
September is Suicide Prevention Month– an important time to spread awareness, share vital resources, and encourage meaningful conversations surrounding this stigmatized topic. At Tree of Life Counseling Center, we are proud to join mental health advocates, prevention organizations, survivors, and allies in reminding individuals that they are not alone.
Suicide can affect individuals from all backgrounds and does not discriminate based on age, gender, socioeconomic status, race, or religion. By working together to understand the signs, risk factors, and resources available to those struggling with suicidal ideation, we can continue to combat the ongoing mental health crisis and create a more understanding and supportive community.
Prevalence
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 13.2 million people reported seriously considering suicide in 2022, with the World Health Organization categorizing suicide as the third leading cause of death among 15-29 year olds.
With such a high prevalence both domestically and worldwide, suicide remains a serious public health concern that continues to require increased prevention and response efforts.
Warning Signs
Recognizing warning signs that someone may be considering suicide is a crucial step to intervening and preventing an attempt. Some of the most common signs of suicidal ideation include:
Verbal Expressions of Hopelessness: Statements such as “I can’t do this anymore,” “What is the point?” or “I feel like a burden.”
Behavioral Changes: Changes in mood or appetite, social isolation, loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed.
Increased Risk-Taking: Participation in reckless behaviors, substance abuse, or self-harm.
Making Final Arrangements: Distribution of personal belongings, writing a will, or expressing farewell statements.
It is important to note that warning signs may vary in expression, intensity and may not be as overt as listed above. Remaining vigilant, checking in on loved ones, and approaching the subject with care and concern is essential to suicide prevention.
How to Support a Loved One
If you suspect someone may be considering suicide, below are some actionable steps to consider when offering support.
Direct Communication: Opening a clear dialogue by asking “Are you thinking about suicide?” works to reduce stigma and demonstrate empathy and concern.
Active Listening: Providing a safe space for an individual to express their feelings without interruption or offering immediate solutions can help ensure they feel heard and understood.
Encourage Professional Intervention: Accurately gauging the intensity of a situation and offering to help contact appropriate resources, such as a mental health provider or a crisis resource can take some of the pressure off someone worried about navigating those steps alone.
Follow-Up: Keeping in touch following an initial conversation can go a long way to provide hope and reassurance of your support.
Key Resources and Helplines
If you or a loved one is in a crisis, below are some resources that are available to provide 24/7 immediate support.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Dial or text 988 for 24/7 confidential support.
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to be connected with a trained crisis counselor.
The Trevor Project’s Suicide Hotline for LGBTQ Youth: Text START to 678-678 or call 1-866-488-7386 for confidential support.
Local Emergency Centers: Contact or drop in to a local hospital with an emergency room and disclose that someone is in a mental health crisis.
By recognizing the signs of suicidal ideation and reaching out to appropriate resources, we can all work together to prevent suicide and save lives.
About Tree of Life Counseling Center
At Tree of Life Counseling Center in Princeton, NJ and Freehold, NJ, we have an experienced team of 50+ clinicians to help support you, and your family, through whatever you may be facing. Schedule an appointment today by calling 732-393-8391 or filling out an online form at https://www.treeoflifecc.org/start-today.
