You are Important: Suicide Prevention Month
September is Suicide Prevention Month and during this significant period, our attention is drawn to understanding how we, as a community, can offer our support. Teenage years can be challenging, and it's essential for you to understand that when you encounter difficult times, you are not alone.
Many adolescents experience depression, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide ranks among the leading causes of death in the teenage demographic. Various factors can contribute to a teen's experience of such distress, such as overwhelming anxiety, substance use, bullying, academic pressures, family turmoil, and societal expectations.
The Significance of Suicide Prevention Month
Raising Awareness: Suicide Prevention Month serves as a platform to draw attention to this significant issue. It reminds us of the paramount importance of understanding and supporting teenagers when they struggle with sadness.
Encouraging Dialogue: By engaging in discussions about suicide prevention, we cultivate an environment where it's acceptable to openly communicate our emotions. This can diminish the stigma surrounding seeking help when needed.
Facilitating Resource Accessibility: This month helps us familiarize ourselves with the available resources and support systems tailored to teenagers facing prolonged sadness. Knowing where to turn for help is of utmost significance.
Extending Support: By participating in activities during Suicide Prevention Month, you have the opportunity to demonstrate your care and support for your friends and those around you who may be navigating through challenging times. Your support can make a significant difference.
Suggestions for Teens
Engage in Conversation: If you experience intense sadness or are aware of someone who does, do not keep it to yourself. Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, teacher, or therapist. Initiating a dialogue about your emotions is the first step towards receiving assistance.
Seek Assistance: If you find yourself persistently overwhelmed by sadness, reach out to an adult for help. They can connect you with a counselor or another professional experienced in providing guidance and support.
Prioritize Self-Care: Ensure that you maintain a balanced diet, get adequate sleep, and engage in regular physical activity. These practices can significantly contribute to your emotional well-being.
Recognize Warning Signals: Acquaint yourself with behaviors that may indicate that someone is contemplating self-harm or worse, such as avoiding social interactions or discussing thoughts of ending their life. If you observe these signs in someone you know, inform a trusted adult right away.
Suggestions for Parents and Adults
Be an Attentive Listener: As adults, we can be of assistance by attentively listening when teenagers discuss their problems. Validate their feelings, reinforce them for sharing and let them know you will be there to support them.
Familiarize Yourself with Signs: Parents and adults should acquaint themselves with signs that a teenager may be grappling with intense sadness or contemplating self-harm. These signs include:
Expressing Suicidal Thoughts or Intentions
Withdrawal
Drastic Changes in Behavior
Sudden Mood Swings
Increased Irritability or Agitation
Changes in Sleep Patterns
Changes in Eating Habits
Loss of Interest
Decline in Academic Performance
Preoccupation with Death
Giving Away Possessions
Saying Goodbyes
Increased Substance Abuse
Self-Harm
A Sense of Hopelessness
Seek Help Collaboratively: If you suspect that a teenager is truly struggling, seek support together. Contact a counselor, or explore available resources in your community. Don't hesitate to seek guidance from experts.
Suicide Prevention Month stands as a collective effort to ensure that teenagers understand their importance and know there is assistance available when they encounter difficult moments. Always remember, you are significant, and so are the teenagers in your life. Through mutual care, open discussions about emotions, and seeking help when necessary, we can make a substantial impact in safeguarding our well-being.
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.