In this post, I want to remind readers that September is National Suicide Prevention Month. Each of us has a role in helping to recognize people in distress and help them work through dark times.  Recognizing the signs of depression and other mental health conditions that leave people feeling helpless is the first step.

According to the National Institute of Health, warning signs that could lead to suicide could include:

• Talking about suicide:
• Wanting to die
• Guilt or shame
• Feeling like a burden to others

Feelings to be aware of:

• Empty, hopeless, trapped, or having no reason to live
• Extremely sad, more anxious, agitated, or full of rage
• Unbearable emotional or physical pain

Behavioral Changes to be aware:

• Making a plan or researching ways to die
• Withdrawing from friends, saying goodbye, giving away essential items, or making a will
• Taking dangerous risks, such as driving extremely fast
• Displaying extreme mood swings
• Eating or sleeping more or less
• Using drugs or alcohol more often

If these warning signs are recognized, help the person get help as soon as possible, especially if the behavior is new or has increased.

Being open to talking to someone who says they are depressed can be the spark to get help. Never underestimate the power of a call, a visit, or a kind word. Listening to your patients and their family members and recognizing signs of depression they may display is essential. Doing so can help someone realize that they are cared for and empower them to cope with their problems and that tomorrow is a new day.

Those in pain, or who have sustained catastrophic injuries and lost their life work or find themselves in financial trouble are most at risk. Opening a dialogue with the person is the first step and could save a life.

In closing, I want to share some resources that can be used in helping someone who you might suspect as being suicidal or at risk for becoming suicidal. I hope you never need them, but review them and keep them handy, just in case.

Resources to check out and utilize:

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration:  https://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/observances/suicide-prevention-month

National Association of Mental Health: https://www.nami.org/get-involved/awareness-events/suicide-prevention-month

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: https://chat.988lifeline.org

Speaking Up about Suicide Risk: How to Remain Vigilant in Workers’ Comp https://riskandinsurance.com/speaking-up-about-suicide-risk-how-to-remain-vigilant-in-workers-comp

The Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress: https://www.cstsonline.org

Have a good week. Stay safe.