#SeptemberisNationalSuicidePreventionMonth – Have The Conversation: #MentalHealthExpert Says #SuicidePrevention Starts With Talking

By Laurie Fickman

#Suicide is preventable, but only if conversations about this taboo topic become more commonplace, according to Rheeda Walker, University of Houston psychology professor and expert on #mentalhealth and #suicideprevention. Walker contends that despite an increase in suicides across the country in recent years, and more suicides than homicide deaths annually, there seems little ongoing intention to prevent #suicideattempts and deaths. In 2019, one person killed themselves every 11.1 minutes in the #UnitedStates.  

“Perhaps if those who died by #suicide were able to openly discuss their #mentalhealthstruggles and intentions without shame or judgment, before they acted, the outcome would have been different,” said Walker, who is also the director of the Culture, Risk, and Resilience Lab at UH. “#Suicideprevention only works if we have knowledge, courage and insight before someone is in crisis.”  

#NationalSuicidePreventionMonth is a yearly campaign observed by the #CentersforDiseaseControl to raise awareness about #suicide as a serious public health problem and to highlight the role that everyone plays in preventing #suicide.   

“In our society, we tend to be more reactive to #suicide – surprised by the death of those who seem to ‘have it all.’ When a close loved one dies by #suicide, the common refrain is ‘I didn’t think they could ever do such a thing,’ though there was knowledge the person was struggling with the loss of a job, a difficult relationship breakup, or isolated by the strain of long #COVID,” said Walker. 

#James Donaldson notes:
Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.
Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.
Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticle

Order your copy of James Donaldson’s latest book,
#CelebratingYourGiftofLife:
From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

When someone you know appears overly upset, depressed or even suicidal, you might not know what to do and wonder if you should just ignore it.  

Starting with a heartfelt conversation is always the answer. 

“Asking someone about their life and possible #suicidalthoughts won’t push them over the edge into action,” said Walker. “You won’t make someone act self-destructively. You may reduce the risk of them acting on their feelings by showing them you are concerned and care about them.” 

There are some common warning signs that someone is at risk including actual threats of #suicide, withdrawing socially, excessive worry, mood swings and being preoccupied with death, dying or violence. 

The rising number of suicides in the #Blackcommunity has led Walker to research that reveals people of color have even further risk because of discrimination they endure.  

“You and your loved ones are up against someone else’s insanity. You need so much more than #mentalhealth or ‘wellbeing’ in this era of discrimination, invisibility and psychological warfare. You need an impermeable web of protection for your mind, what I call psychological fortitude,” said Walker, who is author of the bestselling book, “The Unapologetic Guide to #Black #MentalHealth.” 

If you are in crisis, call or text the 988 #Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The Lifeline provides confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. Support is also available via live chat.