Aurora Behavioral Health System’s Post

DAY 14 💪 Today’s target is 118 push-ups. This is for the 11.8% of Canadians who have contemplated suicide in their lifetime.  Today’s Mental Health Fact is a heavy one, but we believe it’s really important. Did you know that in Canada, around 12 lives are lost to suicide daily? Suicide rates are three times higher among men than women. For Canadians aged 15 to 34, it’s the second leading cause of death.  For each life lost to suicide, the WHO estimates that 10 people are deeply affected. Beyond these people, around 120 additional people will also be affected by the death.  Reaching out, even when it’s uncomfortable, is important. If you’re struggling with suicidal thoughts, remember that help is available. Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional. You don’t have to face your struggles alone - and your presence matters.  In times of crisis, reach out to the 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline. Call or text 9-8-8 (toll-free, 24/7). Visit https://988.ca/ for more information. To learn more about The Push-Up Challenge and support in the #PushforBetter mental health, visit: https://ow.ly/peiL50Qo0Vx 

I want to take a second and become a little less "professional" here on LinkedIn. May is Mental Health Awareness Month so here are some eye openers for everyone. -Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the US. -Over 50,000 people died by suicide in the US last year with 1.7 million attempts and year over year, it only increases especially in people of color and younger individuals. -Suicide deaths have become more common than car accident deaths. -1 in 5 individuals experience depression -Nearly 70% of children who experience depression or addiction can't receive the help they seek. -There is a multi-month wait to see therapists across the country -Over one's life, there is a probable chance someone close will attempt or commit suicide Just 371 days ago, my 17-year-old sister became one of the 50,000. Whether it's May or not, I will never stop bringing awareness to suicide and depression; I will never stop telling my sister's story. One of my biggest goals is preventing what my family is going through and even more, prevent what my sister went through. Suicide is the most preventable death - have the tough conversation, ask people if they're contemplating suicide and provide help when necessary and possible. **If you or a loved one is suffering from suicidal ideation, dial 988 for help or go to your nearest emergency department To find additional ways to help, please visit American Foundation for Suicide Prevention or The Yellow Tulip Project

MALE SUICIDE Unfortunately, suicide amongst men is still a taboo subject. Suicide is the biggest killer among men under the age of 45 – lets end this stigma. Men are often less likely to open up and ask for support. If they do, they often wait until things are at crisis point. We need to encourage men to talk about their struggles and mental health more by proving that men needn’t feel ashamed talking about such topics. Typically, men who think about suicide or attempt suicide do so because they feel as though they can no longer cope with life. They may feel hopeless, worthless and lonely and they may believe suicide is the only option. These feelings may arise as a result of many situations including family breakdown and the worry of Co-parenting or financial issues that arise. Friends and family can be a great source of support and are often the first people we talk too. They may not have the answers but they can help take some of the weight of your shoulders. There are also many helplines that are available 24/7 see our website for more information. Just remember you are not alone. Reach out Speak to your GP Talk Access support helplines When you are feeling low what strategy do you use to help you cope? Maybe your healthy coping mechanisms could help others? Please share with us!

Suicide wears many faces, each one unique and deeply personal. It is not limited by age, gender, or background; anyone can be affected. For some, suicide appears as a result of mental illness. Depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and other mental health conditions can contribute to overwhelming feelings of despair and hopelessness. The face of suicide in this case may be hidden behind a smile, as individuals may mask their pain, making it difficult for those around them to recognize the signs. In other cases, suicide can be the result of a sudden life crisis or traumatic event. Each face of suicide in these cases reflects the immense burden brought about by grief, loss, or overwhelming stress. It can manifest in individuals who are struggling with relationship issues, financial troubles, bullying, or the death of a loved one. Sometimes, suicide shows itself in those who have suffered from long-standing emotional or physical abuse. The face of suicide in these cases bears the scars of trauma and the struggle to find relief from the pain inflicted upon them. Suicide can also appear in those who feel isolated and disconnected from their communities. The face of suicide in this situation may reflect deep feelings of loneliness and a lack of belonging. Regardless of the face it wears, suicide leaves behind shattered lives and broken hearts. It is a tragic and complex issue that requires understanding, support, and compassion. It is crucial to break the stigma surrounding mental health, to provide resources and access to treatment, and to foster an environment of open communication where individuals feel safe to seek help. By doing so, we can help prevent suicide and support those who may be struggling, offering hope and healing instead. Sending love and light to anyone going through something that no one understands. Remember that you are not alone, even if it may feel that way. Our hearts are here with you, offering support and empathy during this challenging time. May love fill your days and bring you comfort, and may light guide your path towards healing and understanding. Stay strong, and know that there are people who care and are ready to listen. #suicide #suicideawareness

CHILDREN & SUICIDE - A HARSH TRUTH Sadly, as reported in the press and across social media, Riley Townsend, a 12 year old boy from Nottinghamshire, has taken his own life after struggling with his mental health. Suicide is known to be the biggest killer of people under the age of 35 and the biggest killer of men under the age of 50. However, it is less well documented that suicide is the leading cause of death in the UK for 10-19 year olds. For some inexplicable reason, such tragedies are the result of the ultimate loss of hope and the ultimate loss of meaning of purpose. Even to those who seem to have everything to live for. Hence talking about suicide with our children will help dispel misinformation. It will help create a safe environment where they can feel safe enough to ask questions. No matter how difficult this appears, please do not avoid the conversation. For excellent advice on some ways you can support your child, and places you can get help, please click this link to the YoungMinds web site: https://lnkd.in/gq3SyMMc Love and Light good people xx. #suicideprevention #mentalhealthawareness #Youngpeople

This time of year can be hard for so many. If you or someone you know is struggling, then please know that you're not alone. There are a number of places where people are willing to help. Phone a helpline These free helplines are there to help when you or someone you know is feeling feeling down or desperate. Unless it says otherwise, they're open 24 hours a day, every day. Samaritans – for everyone Call 116 123 Email [email protected] Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) Call 0800 58 58 58 – 5pm to midnight every day Visit the webchat page Papyrus – prevention of young suicide HOPELINE247 Call 0800 068 41 41 Text 07860 039967 Email [email protected] Childline – for children and young people under 19 Call 0800 1111 – the number will not show up on your phone bill SOS Silence of Suicide – for everyone Call 0300 1020 505 – 4pm to midnight every day Email [email protected] Message a text line If you do not want to talk to someone over the phone, these text lines are open 24 hours a day, every day. Shout Crisis Text Line – for everyone Text "SHOUT" to 85258 YoungMinds Crisis Messenger – for people under 19 Text "YM" to 85258 Talk to someone you trust Let family or friends know what's going on. They may be able to offer support and help keep you safe. There's no right or wrong way to talk about suicidal feelings – starting the conversation is what's important. If you find it difficult to talk to someone you know, you could: call a GP – ask for an emergency appointment call 111 out of hours – they will help you find the support and help you need contact your mental health crisis team – if you have one Please stay safe and understand that no matter how much it hurts, there is always some there to talk to. @samaritanscharity @calmzone @papyrus_uk @childline_official @sossilenceofsuicide @giveusashoutinsta @youngmindsuk

💛IS SUICIDE PREVENTABLE? 💛 There are lots of myths surrounding thoughts of and deaths by suicide, here we will focus on some facts: 👉Fact: Many individuals with mental illness are not affected by thoughts of suicide and not all people who attempt or die by suicide have mental illness. Relationship problems and other life stressors such as criminal/legal matters, persecution, eviction/loss of home, death of a loved one, a devastating or debilitating illness, trauma, sexual abuse, rejection, and recent or impending crises are also associated with suicidal thoughts and attempts. 👉Fact: Active suicidal ideation is often short-term and situation-specific. The act of suicide is often an attempt to control deep, painful emotions and thoughts an individual is experiencing. Once these thoughts dissipate, so does the suicidal ideation. Whilst thoughts of suicide can return, they are not permanent, but can be present for two years or more. An individual with thoughts of suicide and has done suicide behaviour can live a long, successful life. 👉Fact: Verbal or behavioural warning signs precede most suicides. They may only show warning signs to those closest to them, however those people may not recognise what’s going on so, it seems like the suicide was sudden or without warning. 👉Fact: People die by suicide because they want to end their very deep suffering and do not have their ideations by choice. They are going through a very serious mental health symptom due to either mental illness or a difficult life situation. 👉Fact: Talking about suicide reduces the stigma, AND allows individuals to seek help, rethink their opinions and share their story with others. 🌐To read the full blog please follow the link: https://lnkd.in/exF7jEBA #TheLearn2Group #SuicidePrevention #SuicideSupport #Brandon #CoventryTraining

*****NO JUDGEMENT, JUST HELP!****** Share and repost in your network to spread awareness! Here are 5 steps you can take to #BeThe1Tohelp someone who is having thoughts of suicide: (Credits: National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) ) 1. ASK: “Are you thinking about suicide?” It’s not an easy question to ask, but it can help start a conversation. Studies show that asking people  if they are suicidal does not increase suicidal behavior or thoughts. 2. BE THERE: Listening without judgment is key to learning what the person is thinking and feeling. Research suggests acknowledging and talking about suicide  may reduce suicidal thoughts. 3. HELP KEEP THEM SAFE: Reducing access to highly lethal items or places can help prevent suicide. Asking the person if they have a plan and making lethal means less available or less deadly can help the person stay safe when suicidal thoughts arise. 4. HELP THEM CONNECT: Connecting the person to a dedicated helpline and other community resources can give them a safety net when they need it. You can also help them reach out to a trusted family member, friend, spiritual advisor, or mental health professional. 5. FOLLOW UP: Staying in touch with the person after they have experienced a crisis or been discharged from care can make a difference. Studies show that supportive, ongoing contact  can play an important role in suicide prevention. Suicide is complicated and tragic, but it is often preventable. Knowing the warning signs for suicide and how to get help can help save lives. Learn about behaviors that may be a sign that someone is thinking about suicide. * In the US - call or text 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) For more information visit https://lnkd.in/gv-r9BY3   #shareNIMH * In India - School of Human Ecology, TISS under Tata Institute of Social Sciences has a helpline which can be reached at - iCALL by dialing 91529 87821 For more information visit https://icallhelpline.org/ #bethe1tohelp #suicideprevention #suicidepreventionmonth #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #suicide #nojudgement #reachout

Mental illness is a serious risk factor for suicide (Dattani et al., 2023). About 2.1% of women and 4.3% of men diagnosed with a mental illness died by suicide, versus 0.3% of women and 0.7% of men without a mental illness (Nordentoft et al., 2011). Risk also varies by the type of mental illness. For example, 4.8% of women and 7.9% of men diagnosed with bipolar disorder died by suicide (Nordentoft et al., 2011). The vast majority of those diagnosed with mental illness, however, do not die by suicide, and the risk of suicide can be reduced substantially with treatment (Dattani et al., 2023). If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, call or text 9-8-8 (24/7) or visit 988.ca. #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthawareness #suicide #depression (Dattani et al., 2023) https://lnkd.in/ejWtHZFa  (Nordentoft et al., 2011) https://lnkd.in/eDEqy7F6 

Suicide is not just a word. It represents a deep and complex struggle that many people face. It’s a serious and sensitive issue that can affect anyone, regardless of background or circumstances. Talking about suicide often involves addressing intense emotions, feelings of hopelessness, and pain that can feel overwhelming. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, it’s important to reach out for help. Here are some immediate steps: 1. **Talk to Someone You Trust**: Opening up to a friend, family member, or someone you trust can be a critical first step. You don't have to go through this alone. 2. **Reach Out to a Professional**: A mental health professional, like a therapist or counsellor, can provide support and help you navigate these feelings. They can offer strategies and interventions to manage distress. 3. **Crisis Helplines**: In the UK, for example, you can contact the Samaritans at 116 123 for free, confidential support 24/7. Similar services are available in other countries. 4. **Emergency Services**: If you or someone else is in immediate danger, calling emergency services is crucial. Remember, the feelings that lead to thoughts of suicide are often temporary, and with the right support, they can be managed. Your life has value, and there is help available.