Suicide is a major public health concern in the United States, affecting not only the people who die by suicide but also their families and friends. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention WISQARS Leading Causes of Death Reports, suicide was the second leading cause of death among people between the ages of 10-14 and 25-34 and the third leading cause of death among people between the ages of 15-24.
This week is Suicide Prevention Week, and we are highlighting some of the Providence resources related to signs of suicide and other mental health issues. If you or a loved one has been experiencing thoughts of suicide or other forms of self-harm, there are many ways you can seek help.
Debunking common myths about suicide
One of the reasons why suicide is such a major issue in our country is because many people have mistaken impressions about why people decide to take their life and how they do it. In this article, you can learn common myths about suicide and the facts debunking those myths. For example, some people believe that once a person decides to commit suicide, nobody can stop them. In reality, support and intervention can help people considering suicide head in a different direction.
Hiding in Plain Sight
In June, PBS producer Ken Burns and his team released a four-hour documentary about the youth mental health crisis in the United States called Hiding in Plain Sight. One of the young people in the film is Billie Henderson, a student at Willamette University and the daughter of Robin Henderson, PsyD, chief executive of behavioral health for Providence Oregon. When Billie was in high school, she gave interviews about her experiences with the Providence eating disorders clinic. “My purpose is to help people in any way I can,” she says. “If I’m able to use my story and the pain I’ve experienced and turn it into something that can help other people who are struggling with the same things, then I’m more than happy to do so.”
Teens discuss suicide and mental wellness
Talk2BeWell is a podcast series hosted by Robin Henderson, Psy.D., chief executive for behavioral health at Providence Oregon. Each episode features teens talking about different mental health topics. Recently, three teenagers joined Dr. Henderson to talk about the stigmas surrounding suicide prevention and the resources available to teens who are considering suicide.
Don’t be afraid to seek mental health care
While there is a stigma attached to those who seek mental health care in many minority communities, it is still a very needed service. Two of the most common mental health conditions for minorities are depression and anxiety. In this article, you can learn about the signs of symptoms of these two conditions and how you can take care of yourself and reach out to others. The piece also highlights some of the mental health resources Providence provides for its caregivers.
What to do when a loved is having suicidal thoughts
You may feel like you are the wrong person to help someone who is considering suicide, but if they are sharing their thoughts with you, you are the exact right person. The most important thing you can do is listen to them. Make sure they know that you are there for them no matter what happens. You also may want to lock up guns and certain prescription medications, so it is harder for them to take their own life.
Original source can be found here.
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