September is National Suicide Awareness Month. As a suicide attempt survivor this topic is near and dear to my heart. It’s important to know the signs:
- Talking about wanting to die or killing oneself; searching for ways to do so
- Feeling hopeless ; talk of no reason to go on
- Experiencing unbearable pain
- Talking about being a burden to others
- Withdrawing or isolating themselves
- Feeling trapped
- End of life preparations
- Losing interest in most things
- Change in eating or sleeping habits
- Saying goodbye to family and friends as if they won’t see them again
- Extreme mood swings
- Increased use of alcohol and drugs
- Aggression
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Relief/sudden improvement
If you know someone who is struggling, be there for them. Take time to listen with an open mind and allow them to express their feelings. As much as you may want to panic, stay calm. Take their behavior seriously and if the person is suicidal seek professional help immediately. Remember to be patient. I’ve been on both ends of the situation and I know if can be frustrating.
If you’re struggling don’t be afraid to reach out for help. As scary as it may seem, it’s a life changing decision worth making. I could write out a list of reasons on why I was afraid of getting help but chose to do so. Not for anyone else but for myself. If you’re having a hard time remember it’s ok not to be ok. It’s ok to be down but remember when you’re ready, help it out there.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1-800-273-8255
Crisis Text Line
741741
Photo by Hian Oliveira on Unsplash
