Suicide Prevention Awareness

Our therapists in Orem are keenly aware that September is Suicide Prevention Month. While suicide prevention is important to address year-round, Suicide Prevention Month provides a dedicated time to come together with collective passion and strength to address this difficult topic.We use this month as a time to spread awareness of this urgently important crisis. It is the focus of many to shift public perception, spread hope and share vital and life-saving information to people affected by suicide and suicidal ideation. We aim to ensure that individuals, friends, families and communities have access to resources they need to discuss suicide prevention and to seek help. We especially like the messages and info found on these websites:

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention shares several tips that we can all use as reminders to look out for loved ones, people in our community, and those who have been impacted by this leading cause of death.

1. Ask

Research shows people who are having thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone asks after them in a caring way. Findings suggest acknowledging and talking about suicide may reduce rather than increase suicidal ideation.

2. Be There

Individuals are more likely to feel less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful by after speaking to someone who listens without judgment.

3. Keep Them Safe

A number of studies have indicated that when lethal means are made less available or less deadly, suicide rates by that method decline, and frequently suicide rates overall decline.

4. Help Them Stay Connected

Studies indicate that helping someone at risk create a network of resources and individuals for support and safety can help them take positive action and reduce feelings of hopelessness.

5. Follow Up

Studies have also shown that brief, low cost intervention and supportive, ongoing contact may be an important part of suicide prevention, especially for individuals after they have been discharged from hospitals or care services.

Our therapists in Spanish Fork want to amplify the message of dozens of other mental health organizations around the nation that there is hope, and there is strength in vulnerability, and that there is healing and growth found in therapy. Let’s create spaces where people can prioritize their mental health, where their voices are heard, where support thrives and flows freely, and where healing can take root. As we share our mental health journeys – the good, the bad, and the ugly – we begin to let down our walls and create safe spaces. Please join us in fostering open conversations and call our office so we can be a part of your journey. 801-224-2313.