Suicide Prevention Month: When to Seek Help
Millions of Americans struggle with suicidal thoughts or suicidal ideation. Anyone can experience thoughts of suicide, and it does not always result in a suicide attempt.
Factors that can increase the risk of suicide include: social isolation, serious illness, legal problems, financial problems, substance use and job loss.
“It’s always important, but now especially, to stay connected with your loved ones, embrace community support and improve access to healthcare, including behavioral health treatment,” said Amber Olson, LCSW, with Memorial Behavioral Health (MBH). “People from all walks of life have been under tremendous stress. We need to reach out and offer support and resources to those who are struggling in our midst.”
Families and communities can make changes that help and protect individuals who are experiencing suicidal thoughts. Consider these strategies:
- Ensure and encourage easy access to physical and mental healthcare services
- Teach coping skills across the spectrum: school, work, church, activities
- Maintain connections and relationships with family, friends and the community
- Develop supportive relationships with care providers
- Limit access to harmful or lethal means
If you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts, please seek immediate help. If you or a loved one are experiencing suicidal ideation, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available free and confidential 24 hours per day at 800-273-8255 or via chat online.
Need to talk?
MBH offers an emotional support hotline at 217-588-5509 to provide support to individuals who are experiencing anxiety or stress, even if they aren’t MBH patients. The agency also provides in-person and telehealth appointments for their patients. Call 217-525-1064 to schedule an appointment.
Related Articles
The Living Room: A Place for Support
Helping Teens Through Depression
We’re All Struggling—It’s Okay to Share How You Feel