September Marks Suicide Prevention Month

Centered Recovery wants to take the time to recognize September as Suicide Prevention Month. As mental health and recovery advocates, we understand the impact that suicidal thoughts and actions can have on individuals and their loved ones. We hope to encourage conversations about your mental health and how to begin breaking down the walls to ask for help. It is okay if you do not understand suicide or are not sure how to approach it because we are here to help guide you through steps you can take. You are not in this alone and your life matters!

Understanding Suicide

In 2020, the United States had nearly 46,000 suicides. Sadly, suicide is one of the leading causes of death for people aged 15 to 34 around the world! But knowing the statistics is only a part of the solution. People with suicidal tendencies also typically have personal risk factors such as substance abuse, chronic illness, isolation, or a family history of suicide.

Suicide might not always be the easiest topic to talk about, but it is one of the most important things to voice when you are feeling unsafe or worried about someone’s life. Thoughts of suicide are complex and can impact anyone – it doesn’t matter how a person might seem because they may be struggling in silence. Among individuals with mental health conditions and substance use disorders, the risk of suicide may be higher, so have conversations and check in with your loved ones.

Warning Signs of Suicide

There are many warning signs to look for in a suicidal person. Many times these warning signs escalate before an actual attempt, so you must reach out for help before it is too late. Some of the common signs to look for are:

Expressing Hopelessness: Statements that show a person may be feeling worthless, hopeless, or believing that their life is meaningless may suggest a deeper concern for suicidal thoughts.
Increased Substance Abuse: A person may start drinking or using substances more than usual in an attempt to numb their emotional pain or escape the way they are feeling.
Aggressive and Reckless Behavior: Dangerous acts or unexplained anger may be signs that someone is struggling internally and has a disregard for their own safety and well-being.
Change in Sleep Patterns: Drastic changes in sleeping too much or too little can be a sign of emotional and mental distress or an escape from daily life.
Severe Mood Swings: Extreme changes in mood including sadness and despair, calmness or numbness, or extreme energy may be present when contemplating or deciding on suicide.

High-Risk Suicide Signs

Recognizing the high-risk signs of suicide risk is crucial to saving lives, particularly among those struggling with addiction. Some more specific indicators to watch for that are important to be aware of include:

Verbal threats or statements about death: Verbalizing thoughts of suicide or making direct statements like “I don’t want to live anymore” should never be ignored.
Social Withdrawal: Drastic changes in social behavior, such as withdrawing from friends and family, can be a red flag.
Searching for Methods: If someone is actively seeking ways to end their life either through internet searches or in conversation, it is a serious sign that someone is contemplating ending their life.
Giving Away Possessions: Some individuals at risk of suicide may give away their possessions or make final arrangements.
Sudden Improvement: Although it may seem confusing, a sudden mood improvement after a period of depression might signal that the person has decided to end their life. The relief a person feels after their decision can lead to appearing better, when in fact they are in the final stages of their suicide plan.

Suicide Prevention Measures

Knowing suicide prevention techniques could save lives. Seeking help early on is so important and can potentially prevent serious consequences. Suicide is preventable, especially when resources and support are used by those who need it. If you or a loved one are experiencing suicidal thoughts, we know that it can be difficult to ask for help. That is why we need to look out for our loved ones and those around us, especially when dealing with mental health struggles. Spotting the warning signs can save a life and prevent suicide – but recognizing it is not enough. Speak up and seek help for those you care about when you can.

There are specific things you can do when you feel that someone may be contemplating suicide. You can simply ask them if they are considering killing themselves. Listen without judgment and show them you care. Do not leave them until help arrives. Remove objects they can use to harm themselves. And, most importantly, call for help.

Don’t be afraid to have difficult conversations with your loved ones who might be suffering from suicidal thoughts. You do not need to have all the answers to be sympathetic and supportive. It is important that you listen, watch for warning signs, and know when to seek help. Saving a life is a team effort between the person who wants to get better, caring loved ones, and experienced professionals.

Reducing Stigma Around Suicide

Suicide prevention also means raising awareness, opening up conversations, and improving mental health treatment for all. One of the most significant obstacles to preventing suicide is the stigma surrounding mental health issues and addiction. Society’s judgment and fear of discrimination often prevent people from seeking help when they need it most. To combat this stigma and help suicide prevention, see how you can incorporate these options in your life:

Educate: Learn about mental health and addiction to dispel myths and misinformation.
Listen Non-Judgmentally: Offer a compassionate, non-judgmental ear to those who may be struggling.
Talk Openly: Encourage open conversations about mental health and addiction within your community, workplace, and family.
Promote Professional Help: Encourage individuals to seek help from mental health professionals, addiction specialists, or support groups.
Raise Awareness: Participate in Suicide Prevention Awareness Month activities, share resources, and promote mental health awareness on social media!

Immediate Resources for Help

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or experiencing thoughts of suicide, it’s essential to seek help immediately. Here are some resources:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) for immediate assistance.
Crisis Text Line: Text “HELLO” to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.
SAMHSA National Helpline: Call 1-800-662-HELP (1-800-662-4357) for assistance with substance abuse and mental health issues.
Local Support: Reach out to local mental health organizations and addiction support groups for guidance and resources.
Professional Treatment: Seeking professional guidance from a counselor or treatment center can provide long-term support in improving mental health.
911: If you or someone you know is at an immediate risk for suicide, please call your local emergency services.

Centered Recovery Programs Can Help You Today

Suicide Prevention Month is an important reminder of the importance of addressing suicide risk, particularly among individuals struggling with addiction and mental health conditions. According to Psychology Today, suicide is a hidden risk of addiction. People with addiction are actually six times more likely to end their lives than anyone else. And often, the substance may be the very thing a person uses to end his or her life. However, together we can break the silence surrounding this critical issue and save lives.

If you or a loved one are suffering from addiction or depression, call our Center Recovery team right now at 1-800-556-2966. We can get you into long-term recovery today.

Whether you prefer to attend treatment in person or need virtual telehealth services, we can help! Centered Recovery has been providing meaningful, quality care to Georgia residents since 2017, and we have the most Google Reviews of any treatment provider in the state–all five stars!

Centered Recovery Programs is the only Executive Outpatient Addiction and Mental Health Outpatient Facility in Georgia. Call 800-556-2966.

Written by Jennifer Lopes, BS Psy