How to Prevent Suicide

 

It is growing very clear now that we are all feeling the effects of the pandemic on our mental health. We feel isolated in our stress. We have not been able to mourn losses and celebrate traditions in the same ways. Many are suffering from economic losses that cause additional stress. Quarantining at home means extra time spent with your family or housemates, and I love my husband but even I would get sick of seeing him all day and all night (sorry honey!). We must expect that mental illness such as depression and anxiety will increase in our society, and consequently more people may experience suicidal thoughts. My goal with this post is to equip you and empower you to support the people in your life who may be going through this, including yourself. You don't have to be Oprah or the Pope to save a life. The key is to be non-judgmental, calm, and empathetic. 

How to Conduct a Suicide Assessment

I collaborated with my sister, @miho_homie to create this helpful Insta Story for @unity_in_color.  Head over to their stories to take a look! Yes, I know I have the best sister in the world! 

Common Myths About Suicide

• If you use the words "suicide" or "kill yourself," you could worsen the situation. 
• Fact: Using the actual words rather than dancing around it helps to hold up the mirror and reflect back to them the reality of what they are thinking of doing. They are thinking of committing a violent act towards their bodies to the degree that they cannot recover from. Also have they been living in a hole? Otherwise, they have probably heard those words before so it's not going to be the first time. 
• They seem really happy lately! 
• Fact: One of the symptoms of imminent suicide is sudden improvement of mood. This may be due to a lightness they feel at the relief they are anticipating from death. (GMA article)
• Committing suicide is a sign of weakness or failure. 
• Depression, anxiety, and thoughts about suicide are all part of mental illness. If you get cancer, it doesn't mean you are weak or you have failed somehow. In fact, those who endure chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and fight for their lives are seen as strong! In the same way, those who are experiencing mental illness are fighting for their lives.