Suicide Prevention Month Part 1

Shh! Don’t talk about it…If you say it, you’ll make someone want to do it. This is a common misconception about suicide - that if you talk about it, it will make someone more likely to commit. This is not true. There are many common misconceptions and questions people have about suicide.

People often believe that those who talk about suicide are simply seeking attention. Now, while it can be a cry for help, that is not because they want attention…they want help before they feel like there is no other choice. You may think, “well, they do have a choice, a choice to not do it.” If it were that simple, suicide would not be one of the leading causes of death in the United States.

“Studies show that youth in foster care are two and a half times more likely to contemplate suicide than youth not in foster care and four times more likely to attempt suicide,” (tacfs.org). This is why it is so important to talk about it, advocate for those struggling with mental health, be aware of the risk factors and signs, and know how to help. Unfortunately, suicide is still a question mark for many people.

Some FAQ’s about suicide and mental health:

What leads a person to suicide?

There is no single reason for why someone takes their life. It can be a collection of reasons that take a toll on a person’s mental health and the way they view themselves, and the world. Many risk factors include health problems, unhealthy environments or lifestyles, or even generational histories.

Foster children may resort to suicide after experiencing extensive childhood trauma and mental health struggles. With having a tremendous amount of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), it is important to be aware of risk factors, warning signs, and implement protective factors to protect foster children, and children in general. It is important to understand trauma and mental health and take it as a serious health matter. Though this should not be the case, there is, “not enough education and training is provided for caregivers involved in the lives of these young people,” (tacfs.org).

How do you know if someone is planning on taking their life?

Usually a person thinking about taking their life will talk about death or suicidal ideation, feeling hopeless, having no will to live. They may abuse substances or actively look for ways to end their life. If you notice a loved one pulling away from family or activities, losing interest in hobbies, having sleeping problems, isolating, self-harming, or acting like someone who is not planning on being around much longer, they may be thinking about ending their life.

Even if someone you know acts happy all the time, it is still important to try to stay in check with their mental wellbeing. Ask how they are doing, if everything is going okay at home, or if there is anything they need to talk about. Make sure they know you are a safe place to lean on and refrain from any judgement towards anything they say or are feeling. You never know what someone is going through inside despite what they portray on the outside.

Whether you think someone is just talking about it or you think they may take action, take every matter seriously. It is better to be safe than sorry. You may save someone’s life if you take them at their word. Sometimes, all anyone wants to see is that someone cares. If no one pays attention, they may do something irreversible, and it will be too late.

How can I help someone through mental health battles and thoughts of suicide?

Note that these are only ideas and opinions, and if someone is in need of immediate help or advice, seek out a trained professional.

Some options are to make sure to avoid judgement. Instead, ask questions. Take them seriously if they mention having suicidal thoughts. Try to be a safe space for the person to talk freely about their thoughts and feelings. If they feel resistance or judgement, they may pull away and feel it is not safe to open up again. If you have suspicion that a loved one is having suicidal thoughts, try asking them about it. Often, people are afraid to pry because the person struggling may deflect or be triggered. But it is important to address the situation if you believe it is a realistic concern.

You can ask questions like:

“Do you have a plan?”

“What do you need?”

“Have you hurt yourself before?”

Sometimes, just being a constant in their life makes all the difference. People having thoughts about taking their life often feel they are all alone and hopeless. They may say things like, “No one will miss me anyways,” or, “no one cares if I’m gone.” Show them that is wrong by remaining by their side. Be an active listener to their problems. Encourage them with the belief that who they are and what they do matters.

Become aware of professional resources that are available in your community to share with those in need. Many people are not aware of what resources are available to them, which can prevent them from seeking help. Notify a trusted adult or professional if you think someone you know might act on taking their life.

Remember that these are just ideas and opinions only and someone seeking mental health advice should reach out to a trained professional.

Call 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Alabama has a list of crisis numbers here.

Find mental health services in Alabama here.

Visit our community resources page for more resources regarding mental health services, foster care services, and more.

Please reach out for help if you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or having thoughts about suicide. Remember you do not have to go through this alone. You have a purpose and you are worth way more than anything that has ever been done to you. You can take back what is yours. You are resilient and stronger than you think.

For those wanting to take action towards preventing suicide and spreading awareness, it all starts with conversation. TALK ABOUT IT. Share resources, information, and show support. Suicide can be prevented!