Suicide Awareness

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Suicide Awareness

September 7, 2022

Chances are, you or someone you love has been impacted by suicide. In the US alone, someone dies by suicide every 11 minutes. The good news? Suicide is 100% preventable, and knowing how to help your loved one navigate these rough times may be instrumental in their road to recovery.
Keep reading for CVT’s essentials on suicide awareness and prevention.

We’ve been there, we’ve done that, and we’ve learned from it. Read on for our insider tips for getting back on track – and staying there.

If Someone You Know is Struggling with Suicidal Thoughts or Ideation:

How to Listen

Offer a judgment free ear. If your loved one is sharing their suicidal ideation with you, there’s a good chance they feel you’re a trusted friend or family member. The way you listen to them will help maintain your role as a safe space in their lives.
Pro Tip: Take them seriously. If they’re talking about it, they’re probably not just seeking attention.

Pro Tip: Take them seriously. If they’re talking about it, they’re probably not just seeking attention.

How to React

Compassion goes a long way. Acknowledging your loved one’s pain, reminding them that they’re not alone, and telling them you’ll find someone to help are a strong foundation in assisting them on their road to recovery.

Pro Tip: Steer clear of offering advice, asking too many questions, or analyzing the situation.

Know the Signs

First, understand that anyone can be at risk for suicide. Even those with a high social status, well-paying job, and loving family aren’t exempt from being at risk of suicide. The most common causes of suicide are untreated depression and substance abuse, but again, there are people from all walks of life who are battling suicidal ideation.

Pro Tip: Untether yourself from your preconceived notions regarding suicide. Remember that anyone can be a victim of suicide.

Be Prepared to Help

Listening is a great starting point. From there, you can help your loved one find professional help through any of the following links. You can also utilize the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.

Families for Depression Awareness
Helps families recognize and cope with depressive disorders to ease pain and prevent suicides
www.familyaware.org

Suicide Prevention Resource Center
Prevention support, training and resources to assist organizations and individuals
www.sprc.org

Yellow Ribbon International Suicide Prevention Program
Prevention and crisis information for all ages
www.yellowribbon.org

If You’re Struggling With Suicidal Thoughts or Ideation:

How to Tell a Loved One

Vulnerability is difficult on its own; mix in a taboo topic and it can feel like the weight of the world on your shoulders. What we know, though, is that opening up about your suicidal feelings is a good step towards getting help. Our loved ones can provide love and understanding that we are sometimes not equipped to offer ourselves in moments of desperation. They can also assist us in setting up care to guide us towards finding peace with living.

How to Get Help:

Please call 988 for immediate assistance. Use your mental health plan through CVT to receive ongoing professional help.