Suicide Prevention and The Value of Crisis Hotlines
September marks Suicide Prevention Month and mental health resources are crucial.
By Devon Pizano
Mental health issues are an epidemic among the college population. With suicide being the second leading cause of death, it is a difficult subject to discuss due to the stigma attached.
Society thinks that simply talking about suicide will plant the idea of taking their own life into someone’s head, but that is not the case. Talks about mental health lets the individual know they are not alone and starts conversations about getting help. Suicide is entirely preventable when met with support and compassion.
Something as simple as sitting with those who struggle while they talk, can make a difference. Creating a plan the individual can use when in distress, with information such as: phone numbers for family, friends and crisis hotlines, can also be beneficial. Because not everyone is comfortable speaking with someone over the phone, there are other options such as instant messaging or text.
Crisis hotlines are vital resources that provides access to trained counselors for issues ranging from suicide to self harm. The most well known crisis hotline among the college population is Crisis Text Line. As the name suggests, it is operated entirely through text messaging. I personally work as a crisis counselor for this hotline.
Working as a crisis counselor has been helpful for me, as I have struggled with depression and anxiety for as long I can remember. It is the reason I am working towards becoming a therapist. To give others the hope I am finding to stay alive. Focusing on small victories, like even reaching out in the first place, is an important step.
September is National Suicide Prevention Month, which aims to spread awareness about suicide and offer connections to resources such as counseling. There are a few non profit organizations that provide connection during this time such as, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and To Write Love On Her Arms.
To Write Love on Her Arms has special meaning for me. I wear their shirts constantly, put their stickers on my laptop and donate monthly. If even one person comes up to me and asks about my shirt or a sticker, it presents the opportunity for an honest conversation about mental health. Being able to meet someone where they are and asking how they are feeling can help them open up.
Getting to the root of why someone is feeling suicidal is difficult. With a support system and access to counseling there is hope for recovery. Finding small things in a day to day life makes you feel safe. Like listening to your favorite band or reading your favorite book give you something to look forward to.
Little things add up to big moments. Celebrating small victories is essential to coping with depression. So, what may seem small to somebody that does not have depression, like eating a meal or taking a shower, are victories with someone who does struggle with depression.
Remember that you are not alone or broken. There is hope and help available. You can get through this.
If you are struggling please reach out to the Crisis Text Line. Text HELLO to 741-741. Their services are available 24/7.