During this time of the year, we notice leaves changing, temperatures decreasing in some areas, and pumpkin spice lattes being the feature drink at a lot of coffee shops. I admire the fall, it reminds me that Earth goes through seasons just like we do, which may not look so desirable, but it is always necessary.
When the seasons change, it can alter a person’s mood. As the hot days diminish and cold nights take over our evenings, this can cause disappointment. Especially for someone who don’t like putting on coats, sweaters, and boots. Either way, seasons changing is good for us because it’s another way to reflect on what we have going on in our own lives.
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and suicide awareness is something we all should think about. COVID-19 has given us the ability to isolate ourselves and become idle to familiar crowds. These moments are critical because our thoughts can take us to a dangerous place, which causes disruptions in our personal life. Our minds can make us believe things that are not true. For example, assuming no one is there for you and that no one cares. That is why self care is important and talking to individuals that value your life is mandatory. Support and awareness can change someone’s perspective overall.
Becoming aware is key. Being sensitive to someone who struggle with suicide is vital and every attempt, comment, or even thought needs to be taken seriously. Not all signs are noticeable but the best thing anyone can do is be attentive, listen, and educated themselves about suicide.
Suicide Statistics from ASFP
According to AFSP suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States
In 2018 over 48,000 people died by suicide
Over one million suicide attempts were made in 2018
Be mindful of different behaviors and check on your friends especially during complicated times. People who “appear” to have it all together are the ones who suffer in silence. They are the ones who are helping so many people meanwhile no one is checking up on them and their wellbeing. When someone completes suicide it hurts so many people, families, friends, and even those who hear about it. Its devastating and causes people to wish they could have done more, or spent a little more time with the person that was successful at committing suicide. Let’s not wait until its too late to have those thoughts on what we could or should have done.
In reference to being a support for someone here are a few things you can do to help those who struggle with suicide.
Be present: there are times when there is nothing that needs to be said. No words can make a situation better, however your presence speaks louder than words. There is no better feeling than having someone with you going through emotions you can’t explain.
Listen: this is important. When people vent, or express their feelings they are not looking for answers. They are looking for a safe space to express themselves without criticism or solutions. When people talk it allows them to identify their feelings, therefore when you listen you’re doing just that…allowing them to process.
Provide Help: ask someone how you can help them. However, when you ask this question don’t look for an immediate answer, and assure them that they don’t have to answer you right away. Their frustration or emotions may not be able to allocate what they want you to do at the moment. But, knowing they have your support helps and can make a world of a difference.
We may not have all the answers and that is okay. However, we can provide support to those we love. Know that understanding is key and when we take the time to learn and become educated on one’s issue, we can provide the support that others are looking for.