FEBRUARY NONPROFIT OF THE MONTH
JONI ROBERTSON Director of Development Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Texas
BREAKING THE SILENCE - Supporting Those In Crisis
As individuals , families , and communities
continue to cope with COVID-19 , there has never been a more important time to check in on loved ones and offer support .
Social distancing does not mean social isolation . Connect via social media , text , phone , or video chat with the ones you love . If a friend or family member appears to be struggling , take the time to reach out and ask how they are doing – it can make a world of difference . The Numbers Are Staggering The CDC reports that suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the U . S . In the latest survey conducted in 2018 , more than 48,000 Americans died by suicide .
The National Youth Risk Behavior most recent survey of 2017 showed that 17.2 % of high school students “ seriously considered attempting suicide ,” and 13.6 % made a plan for how they would attempt suicide . Know The Warning Signs Some of the warning signs of suicide may be difficult to distinguish during times of physical distancing but , there are actions and behaviors to watch for , including :
• Changes in tone , language , and time of day when texting , talking or posting online
• Failing to respond to calls or texts
• Talking or writing about wanting to die or expressing hopelessness # BeThe1To Save A Life Raise awareness and combat the stigma associated with this tragic loss of life about actions we can all take to prevent suicide – use the hashtag # BeThe1To .
5 Steps To Help Someone Who Is Struggling
1 ) Ask : Ask the question , “ Are you thinking about suicide ?” This communicates that you are open to talking about suicide in a non-judgmental and supportive way .
2 ) Be there : While being physically present for someone may not be possible right now , there are other ways you can “ be there .” Speak with your loved one on the phone / video phone , by text , or through various online platforms .
3 ) Keep them safe : Find out information to establish immediate safety . Ask your friend or family member about their actions leading up to this point , as well as
any future plans .
4 ) Help them connect : Connect your loved one with community resources and supports , and help them develop a safety plan .
5 ) Follow up : Ask if there is anything else you can do to help reduce the risk of suicide . Never underestimate the value of showing up . Offer the opportunity to talk about their thoughts and feelings . Start the conversation , ask questions , offer supportremind them that they are not alone . Suicide Prevention Resources Reach out to a family member , friend , doctor , or the following resources :
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline : 1 ( 800 ) 273- TALK ( 8255 )
• Crisis Text Line : Text “ START ” to 741-741
• The Trevor Project : 1 ( 866 ) 488-7386
• Trans Lifeline : ( 877 ) 565-8860 Devereux Helps Individuals and Families Avoid
This Tragedy
“ Devereux saved my life . I learned that suicide is not the answer . I now believe in myself and know what it means to have people in my life who care and don ’ t give up on me .” - Makenzie
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