Sunday marked the start of a solemn and important week. We’re currently in the middle of Suicide Prevention Week. And as the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention reminds us, “Suicide prevention begins with all of us.”
Because suicide is such a big and heavy topic, it’s daunting to take on. Our goal this week is to make it easier for you to know how to get started. Taking some seemingly simple actions could literally save a life.
In honor of Suicide Prevention Week this week, we wanted to tee up three things you can do.
Memorize this number
While the country has long had a national suicide lifeline people can call when they’re in a crisis, things got easier this summer. Now, to get a trained, compassionate professional on the phone, all you need to do is dial 988.
That three-digit number will take you to the national suicide and crisis lifeline. If you’re ever thinking about harming yourself, reach out first. Talk to someone. See what your options are before you make a choice you can’t take back.
Or if you’re with someone — whether that’s a close friend or someone on the street — and you’re worried about them harming themselves, this resource can help. When you dial 988, you get connected to a local call center. That means that person can not just talk through the situation with you, but also inform you about tools near you that can help.
Start a conversation
Some suicide attempts happen because things pile up. Even small things add to the pile. Hurts and inconveniences all go into the same internal heap. The person feels more and more pressure and self-harm feels like it could be a release valve.
It’s not the only option, though. For a lot of people, the act of simply talking about what they’re feeling can make a tremendous difference.
If someone in your life feels like they’re withdrawing or in a dark place, initiate a conversation. This can feel daunting, but it can be simple. Really, you just need to ask them how they’re doing. Be prepared for them to brush you off at first. Don’t pry, but keep checking in. Keep showing you care. Being there for a friend through the simple act of talking can literally save a life.
Reach out when you need help
Things get hard. But a lot of us were raised or taught to “toughen up” and “pull ourselves up by our bootstraps.” That thinking can be really harmful.
You are allowed to feel hurt or sad. You’re allowed to have bad days. The human experience is an imperfect one and everyone goes through valleys.
Just remember that you’re not in it alone. At the Ventura Counseling & Wellness Center, our team is here to talk. Don’t forget that if you’re in a hard season, we’re here to listen and help you build the tools you need to help yourself move forward. If you want an assist, get in touch with us.
