Parkland psychologist urges people to have open conversations about suicide
September is Suicide Awareness Month
We talk about heart disease. We talk about cancer. So why is it so difficult to talk about the 12th leading cause of death overall in the U.S. in 2020, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)?
Parkland Health psychologists say it’s because suicide is a tough conversation.
The CDC estimates that 12.3 million American adults have seriously thought about suicide, with over 1 million suicide attempts per year. That number is constantly rising, making it a serious public health challenge. So how do we talk about it?
“Talking openly and reaching out to family, friends or community is the one protective factor that can combat suicide,” Natasha Benatti, PsyD, Trauma Psychologist at Parkland Health states. “Removing the stigma surrounding suicide and mental health allows us to listen freely and without judgment, providing a safe space for loved ones to come to when they need help.”
According to the CDC, suicide can affect anyone, but some groups have higher incidence rates than others. Adults aged 35-64 account for almost half of all suicides in the United States. Young people who identify as LGBTQ also have a higher risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior.
“We tend to forget that suicide is connected to violence and injury. People who have experienced violence, including child abuse, bullying or sexual violence have a higher suicide risk,” Dr. Benatti said, emphasizing the importance of trauma-informed care, especially in healthcare settings.
Prevention, just like any health concern, is key. But being proactive about mental health is often not a priority for most people. Parkland psychologists recommend people:
- Have open discussions with family and friends about stress and mental health.
- Teach children how to verbalize their emotions and frustrations.
- Acknowledge the problem. Being open and honest when you are feeling overwhelmed, need a break or are struggling is important. It can also inspire others to do the same.
- Take a break. Work, financial stress and family factors can burn us out, knowing when to pause and put yourself first can be extremely beneficial.
- Ask for help from loved ones. It can be hard to ask for support, especially when others are depending on you. Remember that by taking care of yourself you are also taking care of others.
- Seek professional help. Don’t be afraid of talking to a healthcare professional at any point. Counseling and therapy exist as helpful tools for managing your health.
Every year, Lifeline (988) and other mental health organizations raise awareness of suicide prevention during September, National Suicide Prevention Month. This effort hopes to change the conversation from suicide to suicide prevention while arming people with the language and resources they need to be there for themselves and others.
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) is a 24/7 call, text and chat service where people can access trained crisis counselors. Those experiencing suicidal thoughts, substance abuse or any emotional distress can receive support, which is especially helpful for people wanting to remain anonymous. The line also offers support to those who are worried about a loved one and need crisis support.
This year’s theme is #BeThe1To, encouraging actions that we can all take to prevent suicide. Findings suggest that acknowledging and talking about suicide may reduce rather than increase suicidal ideation, so having meaningful, open conversations in your social circles could positively impact someone without you even knowing.
If you think a friend or loved one may be considering harming themselves, it is always best to err on the side of caution. “Be aware of warning signs including when someone talks about wanting to die or kill themselves, even if in passing or with humor. Speaking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live are also signs that someone may be considering suicide,” Dr. Benatti cautions.
The staff in Parkland’s Behavioral Health Services department is here to support, offering a range of mental health services provided by trauma-informed psychiatrists, behavioral health providers, clinical social workers, psychiatric nurses and psychologists.
For more information about Parkland services, visit www.parklandhealth.org.
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