September is National Suicide Prevention Month. The Centers for Disease Control estimate that 41,000 people commit suicide in America each year. Through education about mental health services and changing the social conversation about the importance of mental health treatment, we can help reduce the number of people who refuse to seek treatment out of fear of being stereotyped or labeled. If you have a loved one suffering with mental illness, call Legacy. We offer holistic Charlotte, NC depression treatment.
One of the most significant contributing factors to suicidal thoughts or tendencies is untreated or undiagnosed mental illness. It is important to know that many factors contribute to the risk of suicide that a person faces. Above untreated mental illness, the other risk factors include:
- Recent loss or other tragedy
- Chronic medical condition or serious illness
- Substance abuse problems or addiction
- Gender - men are more likely to die by suicide, while women are more likely to attempt it
- History of abuse or trauma
- Age - those over the age of 65 or under the age of 24 are at a greater risk
- Sleep deprivation
When combined with an undiagnosed mental illness, these factors can result in suicide.
While it is impossible to prevent suicidal thoughts, it is possible to help those who have these thoughts and urges understand where they come from and to address them with therapies. Validating these feelings and learning to cope with them can help people realize unhealthy behavior patterns and identify co-occurring or underlying conditions that may be contributing to their suicidal thoughts or feelings.
Many who experience suicidal thoughts feel flawed or weak. However, these ideas are dangerous and should be taken seriously. One of the most common misconceptions about suicide is that by talking about it, the person will feel worse about the situation or themselves. In reality, many people who are thinking about suicide feel better after openly discussing their thoughts and feelings.
Here are some things that you can do to help someone you love address these feelings:
- Take these feelings and thoughts seriously
- Respect their process of reflection and let them know it's ok to share with you
- Be calm and patient
- Don't judge
- Reassure them and offer to assist them in finding help
- Educate yourself on the resources available
- Listen with an open mind
Talking about suicide can be difficult for both people in the conversation. However, talking about suicide means that the possibility to move past these feelings and find support and healing exists. Avoid trying to fix their problems, blaming yourself, or arguing with the person. These things will not help and may actually make them stop talking with you or anyone else about it. Do not promise to keep the conversation a secret. Breaking the person's trust in order to get them help can have damaging effects on their relationship with you. Instead, let them know that they can confide in you about anything. Offer to help them find the assistance they need.
Dependable Charlotte, NC Depression Treatment
At Legacy Freedom, we know how difficult it can be to admit you are having suicidal thoughts or how scary it can be to learn that someone you love is having these thoughts or feelings. We can help with dependable Charlotte, NC depression treatment. Our highly trained staff can assist you in getting the help you need. Whether you are struggling with a recent loss, suffering from PTSD, or are living with an undiagnosed or untreated mental illness, Legacy Freedom offers a confidential, holistic approach to your needs.
For more information, call or click to connect with Legacy of Charlotte.