Suicide is a scary topic. The thought of anyone taking their own life is upsetting, and losing a loved one to suicide is completely devastating. But treating suicide and mental illness like taboo topics makes it more difficult for people to get the help that could save their life. If you are concerned for your own or someone else’s emotional well-being, here are some ideas to get a healthy conversation started, brought to you by Method Makeup Academy.

Mental Illness Is More Common than You Think

If we want to properly treat depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses that lead to suicide, we have to start by openly acknowledging them. Thousands of suicide victims have struggled with some form of mental illness. Often, battling with a mental health disorder leaves individuals feeling isolated and ostracized from society, but in reality, mental illness is surprisingly common. In fact, the National Institute of Mental Health reports that about one in five American adults has some form of mental health disorder, but the actual percentage is likely much higher since many sufferers haven’t received a diagnosis. We all struggle with our emotional health from time to time, so don’t let your thoughts or feelings keep you from reaching out for help that could save your life.

Mental Health Care Has Evolved

If you’re worried that seeking help for yourself or a loved one will involve a frightening hospital stay or hours on a couch, you shouldn’t be. Mental health treatments have changed over the past few decades to include more holistic, less harsh forms of care, and there are more specialists than ever who have dedicated their lives to helping those fighting their way through dark times. A care team, which may consist of one or more of a few different specialists, can help you find your way back to health.

Whatever specialists you choose to work with, you will undoubtedly take part in some mode of therapy. Therapy can take a variety of forms and can help you sort through some of the confusing emotions you are feeling. As part of your treatment, your provider may indeed recommend a stay in an inpatient program, but there are plenty of mental healthcare facilities that address concerns without feeling overly sterile or strange. So, don’t be afraid to seek out the support that you need. Taking that first step for help is often the hardest part. 

Self-Care Can Help Prevent Thoughts of Suicide

Depression and other emotional health issues can make necessary self-care seem like a burden. Simple tasks like keeping up with hygiene and preparing food can feel impossible, but sticking to routines that keep you healthy and calm can be a sort of remedy for your mental health. You have to take care of yourself to keep your strength up. Set aside a room in your home that is solely dedicated to mental health-related activities, like meditating and practicing yoga. Try to wake up and take the first few minutes of your day for a soothing activity, and end your day on a relaxing note as well. Whenever possible, try to work some exercise into your day; use a smartwatch to help track your activity and keep you motivated. ZenBusiness also suggests tapping into stress management techniques like focused breathing, accepting stress for what it is, avoiding stress-inducing people and even identifying your stress triggers.

Eat mood-boosting foods such as eggs, wild salmon, asparagus, and nuts. It’s also important to avoid self-medicating with drugs and alcohol. There is a direct connection between substance abuse and suicide, so if you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, it’s critical to seek help immediately.

Suicide Warning Signs Are Often Subtle

Some signs that a person is contemplating suicide are apparent. Talking about suicide, inflicting harm on oneself, or writing about death are clear signs of suicidal thoughts. Often, however, suicidal markers are a little harder to detect. If you or someone close to you struggles with depression and has a sudden change in behavior, take notice. Suicidal individuals may begin to withdraw from relationships. They may have sudden fits of rage at the simplest of stressors. Sometimes, they will begin to give prized possessions away. If you notice any of these behaviors in yourself or someone you know, ask important questions so you can get help. When those signs seem close to turning into action, don’t be afraid to call for emergency assistance.

As a society, we need to stop ignoring the signs of suicide and mental illness. Educating ourselves about the importance of emotional well-being and the benefits of mental health care makes us stronger as a community. We have to support our friends, family members, and ourselves when we are at our darkest moments. Caring can be enough to make a real difference in the well-being and happiness in our communities. It may even be enough to save a life.

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