In recent years, we’ve been reminded often of the importance of checking in with our friends and family that seem happy – that sometimes a smile can mask deep inner turmoil. The suicides of famously “happy” figures like Robin Williams and Kate Spade serve as evidence.
Suicide has ranked as the 10th leading cause of death in the United States for the last 10 years, for all age groups.
“It’s important to remember that not every depressed person is suicidal, and that not every person who calls for help intends self-harm, but we do have to take every case seriously,” said Dr. Brent Bell, psychiatrist, SSM Health Behavioral Health in Oklahoma. “In this digital age where individuals – especially young people – may be crying out online rather than in-person, every step we can take to reduce the stigma and let them know someone cares can go a long way.”
If suicide is imminent or has already been attempted, call 911 immediately and stay with the person until emergency assistance arrives. If someone you know indicates he or she is considering ending his or her life, or if you see signs that you believe they could be preparing to do so, the following steps can be helpful:
For five decades, Australian Don Ritchie lived next to a seaside cliff where an average of one person per week commits suicide. He saved at least 160 strangers simply by smiling, offering to listen and inviting them across the street for a cup of tea. While it’s true that individuals contemplating suicide should seek professional help, any of us can be the voice that helps them reconsider their options and get the help they need.
SSM Health is one of the largest private behavioral health providers in the states where we operate, serving patients of all ages and backgrounds. We recently opened SSM Health Behavioral Urgent Care – a new treatment center located on the DePaul Hospital campus in St. Louis. The center will treat patients with chronic mental illness, depression, anxiety, drug addictions and bipolar disorders, among other issues. And some of those problems affect all of us.
Suicide has ranked as the 10th leading cause of death in the United States for the last 10 years, for all age groups.
A survey released in August by the American Medical Association found that words related to “anxiety” and “panic attack” became the most searched-for terms on the internet when COVID-19 appeared and communities began to lock down and urge self-quarantine.
We all have the power to make a difference and check in on the people we love. In honor of National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, SSM Health is offering advice on what to do if someone you know is in crisis.“It’s important to remember that not every depressed person is suicidal, and that not every person who calls for help intends self-harm, but we do have to take every case seriously,” said Dr. Brent Bell, psychiatrist, SSM Health Behavioral Health in Oklahoma. “In this digital age where individuals – especially young people – may be crying out online rather than in-person, every step we can take to reduce the stigma and let them know someone cares can go a long way.”
If suicide is imminent or has already been attempted, call 911 immediately and stay with the person until emergency assistance arrives. If someone you know indicates he or she is considering ending his or her life, or if you see signs that you believe they could be preparing to do so, the following steps can be helpful:
- Help connect them with a professional: Offer to help the person find a local licensed professional to speak with, and even offer a ride or to attend an appointment with them.
- Let them know you’re there for them: Ask questions, listen carefully and learn how you can be supportive in a way that will make them feel better. Don’t promise to keep their feelings secret, but do promise to act in their best interests.
- Avoid bringing humor or negativity to the situation: Often, suicidal persons feel isolated and may be the victims of bullying or other negative behaviors. Avoid trying to lighten the situation with a joke or dismissing their needs – this is a time to take things seriously.
- Direct them to the National Suicide Prevention Hotline: If you’re at a distance or don’t know the person well, refer them to trained professionals available for confidential counseling at 1-800-273-8255 (open 24 hours per day, 365 days per year).
For five decades, Australian Don Ritchie lived next to a seaside cliff where an average of one person per week commits suicide. He saved at least 160 strangers simply by smiling, offering to listen and inviting them across the street for a cup of tea. While it’s true that individuals contemplating suicide should seek professional help, any of us can be the voice that helps them reconsider their options and get the help they need.
SSM Health is one of the largest private behavioral health providers in the states where we operate, serving patients of all ages and backgrounds. We recently opened SSM Health Behavioral Urgent Care – a new treatment center located on the DePaul Hospital campus in St. Louis. The center will treat patients with chronic mental illness, depression, anxiety, drug addictions and bipolar disorders, among other issues. And some of those problems affect all of us.
