September is Suicide Prevention & Awareness Month, a time dedicated to promoting actions that can help save lives. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), an average of 135 suicide deaths occur each day, with an estimated 1.6 million suicide attempts in 2022 alone.
As we enter this critical month, KCHS Senior Life Solutions joins forces with mental health professionals nationwide to raise awareness about suicide and encourage education that could prevent future tragedies. Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month is an opportunity for everyone to assess their own mental health and that of those around them. Understanding the signs and knowing how to get help are vital steps in making a difference.
“Suicide is a public health crisis that affects people from all walks of life,” says Program Director Michelle Choquette, ADN, RN. “By coming together to raise awareness and educate our communities, we can create a culture where it’s okay to talk about mental health and seek help when needed. We all have a role to play in preventing suicide, and it starts with understanding and compassion.”
So, what should you do if someone you love may be having thoughts of suicide?
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s #BeThe1To campaign outlines five actionable steps that anyone can take to help prevent suicide:
1.Be the One to ASK.
Asking someone directly if they are thinking about suicide can be daunting, but it is a crucial step. Direct questions like, “Are you thinking about killing yourself?” can open up a critical dialogue, allowing the person to share their feelings and providing them with much-needed relief.
2.Be the One to BE THERE.
Being present for someone in distress can make all the difference. Whether through physical presence, a phone call, or a text message, showing that you care and offering support without judgment can help reduce feelings of isolation and hopelessness.
3.Be the One to KEEP THEM SAFE.
If you believe someone is at immediate risk, take steps to keep them safe. This could involve removing access to means of self-harm and staying with them until help arrives. Creating a safe environment is crucial in preventing a crisis.
4.Be the One to HELP THEM STAY CONNECTED.
Establishing a network of support can provide ongoing encouragement and assistance. Connect them with friends, family, community resources, or professional services such as therapists and counselors. Ongoing support like the 988 Lifeline or Crisis Text Line at 741741 can also provide crucial help.
5.Be the One to FOLLOW-UP.
After the initial crisis has passed, follow-up is vital. Regular check-ins reinforce that you care and are committed to their well-being, providing continued support and helping them feel valued and connected.
Why It Matters
Suicide prevention is a responsibility we all share. By following these five steps, anyone can play a role in supporting those who may be struggling. The #BeThe1To campaign empowers individuals to make a difference in their communities, emphasizing that small actions can have a significant impact. By starting the conversation, providing support, and directing help to those who need it, we can prevent suicides and save lives.
If you or someone you know is in an emergency, call 911 immediately. For those experiencing difficult or suicidal thoughts, help is available 24/7 by calling or texting the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
KCHS Senior Life Solutions is an outpatient program designed to meet the unique needs of older adults experiencing depression and/or anxiety related to life changes that are often associated with aging or a chronic diagnosis. If you or someone you know is struggling with a decline in their mental health, our program wants you to know we are here to help. Whether through our program, or another service, our team works to identify and address the emotional needs of those in our community and provide support.
For more information or you or someone you know could benefit from this program, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. Call us today at 30-832-3400 option 4.