Buc staff on suicide and what helps in times of crisis
Opinion by Sarah Baker
How can you help curb the suicide rate in Clallam County?
Stopasuicide.org has an acronym to help people memorize the correct way to respond to a friend or family member who is struggling with suicidal ideation; ACT. It stands for “Acknowledge: Take it seriously and listen,” “Care: Take the initiative and show/voice your concern,” and “Treatment: Get professional help immediately.”
If you notice the warning signs in someone you know, take it seriously and listen. Signs can include talking about wanting to kill oneself, talking about feeling trapped or being in unbearable pain, talking about being a burden to others, increasing the use of drugs or alcohol, sleeping too little or too much and withdrawing or feeling isolated. It is important to recognize the signs in yourself as well. Even if you don’t actively want to die by suicide, considering it or thinking about it is concern enough.
Next, know that when someone is suffering it can be hard for them to remember that there are people who care. Showing your support for someone who is struggling can make a great impact. This also applies to yourself; opening up to someone who cares in order receive the support you need is vital. There can be a misconception in this state of mind that no one could empathize or be concerned for your position, and it is never accurate.
Lastly, the best way to care for someone is to help them begin the treatment process. According to medical professionals across the globe, support from friends and family are not enough to combat serious mental health concerns. Treatment is necessary. You can be the important link someone needs to connect with professionals and get an evaluation booked today.
Saki Kambe
I have friends here and there who are not mentally stable. What I believe helped me is taking good care of myself before I offered help for others. I have ups and downs as well, but I always communicate with myself a lot to figure out how I’m feeling, not only in my down phase, but in everyday life. It has helped me so much.
Sarah Baker
As someone who has struggled with mental illness and suicidal ideation, the most important things for me to remember when I was in that state of mine was that people around you want to help you, even if you don’t believe it and don’t want to help yourself. Feelings of self hatred are not based on objective facts but on an internal wound that needs and deserves attention, care and time to heal. Reaching out, whether it be to medical professionals or family, is incredibly helpful. The national crisis line is also a tool that helped me in times of depression and despair, it’s a great way to talk to a counselor for free.
Kyle Vanous
I would love to see a collective effort to prevent these kinds of wounds rather than attempting to treat them after the fact. Consistently being kind to those outside of your own circle would have an imeasurably positive impact.
Jamela Lopez
I wish my family would have shown some concern or support, other than saying, “we are all stressed and going through things.” I couldn’t find the courage to let anyone know I was feeling suicidal. Taking the time to prioritize my mental health and metacognition was hard work. It was important that I was patient with myself and accepted that in order to grow I would have to separate myself from toxic family members. My mom used to say to me then I was a young girl that I was her hero. I never understood what she meant until I experienced suicidal depression. My son was my strength to fight against my depression. He is my hero.
