Suicide Prevention: Connect, Communicate, Care

Earlier this month we recognized World Suicide Prevention Day. This is the 13th year of the commemoration with its purpose to raise awareness across the globe that suicide can be prevented. This year’s theme, “Connect, Communicate, Care,” represents the three words at the heart of suicide prevention.

So what do they really mean?

Connect. This is about reaching out, especially to those who are experiencing some kind of mental health issue. It is also about reaching out to those who may have been touched by the suicide of someone close to them or who have themselves had thoughts of suicide and might be ashamed to discuss it. The connection is critical, and as uncomfortable as it may be, can make a huge difference in the life of someone who is struggling and in need of support.

Communicate. Openly discussing suicide is the key that opens the door to fight suicide and yet silence is often the norm. Silence is what encourages those suffering with mental issues to feel hopeless and alone. It pushes suicide and mental health deeper into the closet. We need to open that door. As scary as that may be, there are ways to effectively discuss suicide.

Here are some simple things that may help:

1. Approach a person who might be down or suicidal in a caring and empathic manner. Be yourself and let he or she know that you have been concerned lately and you wanted to check in.
2. Express that you care. Be non-judgmental.
3. Don’t worry so much about the “right words.” Remember, the most important thing you can do is LISTEN.
4. Don’t try and change the person. Be accepting and calm and remember that it is okay to discuss their feelings. Don’t tell them that they shouldn’t feel that way. This will only make them feel bad for having the feelings.
5. Offer hope. Let them know there is help and that it is okay for them to avail themselves of it.
6. If they should mention something about feeling as if life is not worth living, ask them if they are having thoughts of suicide. This will not encourage them to do it. Unfortunately this myth has long existed, but it is just that: a myth. Rather, your willingness to listen to their pain can open the door for them to seek help.

Care. This is really at the heart of it all. We need to show that we care about others, especially those who may be suffering. We need to treat mental illnesses in the same manner in which we treat all other illnesses; by being able to express our concerns and offer our help.

This year, the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) is launching a universal suicide prevention awareness ribbon. The suicide prevention ribbon is being promoted by the National Suicide Prevention Hotline. The purple and turquoise ribbon symbolizes suicide awareness and prevention and serves as a reminder that suicide is an issue we need to talk about.

Please promote this message. Let’s bring suicide and mental illness out of the closet and begin to address it openly.