I was approached by Melissa and asked to post the article below that she wrote about Suicide Prevention. Facts are from the U.S. but I'm sure many would be similar in Canada.
Please read as you never know when might be able to help someone or even know when you need to seek help.
The article also suggests great ways to promote wellness. Check out Melissa's website below also.
Thank you Melissa for sharing this important information and helping to prevent suicide.
Namaste.
Pamela Nelson
Can
Emotional Wellness Prevent Suicide?
Photo credit by Pexels
Suicide claims nearly 45,000 American lives
per year. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention also reports that while men account for 3 times as
many of these deaths as women, adult women report attempting suicide 1.2 times
more often. The tragedy is that suicide is preventable but you must know the
warning signs and take action.
There are numerous warning signs that a
person is on the brink of suicide. People at risk often plan to give away their
prized possessions. They may become isolated and withdrawn from others. If you
suddenly can’t reach that friend of yours, it might be time to worry.
Depression can be an indicator too, but not just any kind. Writer Rich Larson was quoted in Psychology Today commenting on suicide, “…it’s really about depression and cynicism. Those two go hand-in-hand, along with their nasty little sister, anxiety. When the three of them get going, they just eat hope as quickly as it can be summoned.” These paths can lead to despair that sets a person on the road to suicide.
Possible victims may also increase risky
behaviors, such as drinking and taking drugs. Look for these signs along with
sudden interest acquiring a gun, the most common weapon used for suicide, or
harmful pills.
Each warning sign must be weighed against
what you know about the person and risk factors in their lives. Some of these
include:
● Family history of suicide.● Mental illness diagnosis.
● Substance abuse history.
● Recent traumatic event or life-changing loss.
For a complete list of warning signs and
risk factors, see the suicide prevention page at Psychiatry.org. Most importantly, take
action right away if you believe someone is in danger of taking his or her
life.
It’s not that uncommon. The National
Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reports, “According to a 2014 National Survey
on Drug Use and Health, 7.9 million people in the U.S. experience
both a mental disorder and substance use disorder simultaneously.” Those
affected require a dual diagnosis to combat both of these issues adequately. NAMI
recommends an integrated treatment approach by professionals who understand
both conditions.
Promoting
Emotional Wellness To Prevent Suicide
This can include
trusted loved ones, a sponsor, a support group, or clergy, to name a few. These
are people you can rely on for support and encouragement when you are
struggling.
● Seek engaging activities.
You must get out of your house and avoid isolation. Meetups, volunteering, and community events are just some of the ways you can get involved that can build emotional wellness.
You must get out of your house and avoid isolation. Meetups, volunteering, and community events are just some of the ways you can get involved that can build emotional wellness.
● Get healthy.
Proper nutrition can bring energy, vitality, and boost your mood. Nature walks benefit your emotional health. You can join a gym to get both physically fit and socialize. Check with your doctor before you do.
Proper nutrition can bring energy, vitality, and boost your mood. Nature walks benefit your emotional health. You can join a gym to get both physically fit and socialize. Check with your doctor before you do.
● Reduce negativity.
We have daily access to negative viewpoints from social media, TV, and other forms of entertainment. Eliminate those voices in your life and replace them with uplifting and positive messaging.
We have daily access to negative viewpoints from social media, TV, and other forms of entertainment. Eliminate those voices in your life and replace them with uplifting and positive messaging.
Author Mellissa Howard
Visit her website (http://stopsuicide.info/)
