The Importance of Mental Health Awareness, Suicide Prevention, and Our Children
Dr. Christina Rahm
??Global Entrepreneur | Patented Scientist | Author & Mother ?? Manages 22 Companies | Works in 89 Countries
Date: September 2024
September is National Suicide Prevention Month—a critical time for mental health advocates, survivors, allies, and community members to unite in raising awareness and educating on the prevention of suicide.
In the United States, mental illness is alarmingly common, with one in five adults affected. More disturbing is the prevalence of suicide as a leading cause of death, particularly among young adults and children. A 2021 CDC study highlighted suicide as the eleventh leading cause of death overall, and notably the second for individuals aged 25 to 34. Even more tragically, pediatric suicide rates have nearly tripled from 2007 to 2017 among children and young adults aged 10 to 24.
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As someone with a background in psychology and rehabilitation counseling, and as a mother of four, these statistics are particularly shocking to me. Reflecting on my own childhood and observing my children, the contrast in mental health stability is stark. It's crucial to maintain open communication with our children and be vigilant for any signs of distress or suicidal ideation.
Dr. Rosezina Meadows, a certified mental health clinician with over 30 years of experience, emphasizes understanding risk factors specific to teens, such as bullying, social media pressure, and family changes like divorce. She points out that risk factors for suicide can also include diagnosed or undiagnosed mental illnesses or substance use disorders, with symptoms often manifesting as hopelessness, irritability, isolation, or changes in sleep and eating habits.
For parents, education is key. Being informed about the risks and protective measures can significantly reduce the incidence of suicide among children. Resources like the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention provide essential guidance on what to watch for and how to act (https://afsp.org/teens-and-suicide-what-parents-should-know).
In conclusion, while this topic is challenging, it's crucial for all of us to be aware of the signs of mental health issues in our loved ones—especially our children—and take the necessary steps to protect them. For immediate help, the Lifeline at https://988lifeline.org/ offers 24/7 crisis support.