This month is Suicide Prevention Month. There has never been a more important time for increased awareness. With COVID-19 having no end in sight, mental health has been an ongoing issue for some across the nation. The pandemic has brought on financial implications to people across the country. This includes furloughs and layoffs due to budget cuts and loss of business. Stress is an understatement when trying to figure out next steps or making sure you can provide for your family. On top of all that making sure you are staying healthy. People do not necessarily have the external factors they need to help alleviate some of the feelings of depression or anxiety. Some people may have to be isolated from family or not able to go out to partake in their regular self-care activities. We all have been finding other ways to cope or get through.
No one is exempt to feeling the effects of depression. We have seen this in the news with Tamar Braxton being hospitalized from an attempt to take her life. Earlier this year we also lost, screenwriter and journalist, Jas Waters, due to suicide. Recently, singer Brandy, has come out about struggling with her depression and often contemplated taking her own life.
The World Health Organization released a news release in early July on the attention that suicide prevention needs right now. With this increase states across the country are being proactive for those who need it. Many are offering more resources that are accessible for those that need it. Many health care providers are also expanding their mental health benefits by expanding virtual access to mental health professionals.
Mental Health and the Black Community
The negative stigma associated with mental health has changed over the years. There are more people advocating for better awareness on taking care of your mental health and the resources that are available. In past years, black men especially have been discouraged about talking about their emotions or feelings. Older generations were never encouraged to utilize therapy services or talk about their mental health. This unfortunately continued to younger generations and has led to increased issues with mental health within our community. We have finally started to break those generational curses when it comes to taking control of our own mental health.
Black Americans also face another reality in America, Racism. Seeing another black men killed on video is something that can be traumatizing. Having to constantly see it on social media and in the news can start to really effect a person. In an article from ABC news, experts say, “The surging coronavirus pandemic and subsequent social unrest from police violence have resulted in a toxic daily environment that can have a deleterious effect on Black Americans’ mental health.” That is why it is so important for people to watch how much they are watching the news and absorbing everything from their social media feed. These images and conversations take a toll on your mental health.
How can you help? What can you really do if someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide or you yourself are having the same issues?
Some things you can do to help according to the CDC is:
Ask. If you see any warning signs or talk of hurting themselves. Just asking can open up a dialogue and allow them to tell you how they are feeling or what is going on.
Keep them Safe. Do you best to keep them from harming themselves or others.
Be there. Sometimes all some needs is someone to be there especially in a time that can feel like they are in this alone.
Help them connect. This can be locally. Find out what resources are available in your community. Even provide the information to the National Suicide Prevention Hotline (1-800-273-8255).
Follow up. Continue to be there for them as much as you possibly can.
You never know what someone may be going through. Some people are carrying loads too heavy to hold. We can all do our part to increase awareness and help save a life. This month help spread awareness on suicide and how we can all have a part in prevention.
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