Navigating the Silent Crisis Amidst a Pandemic
Each September, as we recognize Suicide Prevention Month, we are confronted by the profound gravity of the issue. In the United States alone, suicide is the 10th leading cause of death, claiming over 47,000 lives annually. For every suicide, there are approximately 25 attempts. These startling statistics do not only underscore the magnitude of the challenge but also spotlight the immediate need for action. With the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic impacting mental health globally, the urgency of understanding and addressing suicide is more pronounced than ever.
The Impact of the Pandemic on Mental Health
The COVID-19 pandemic has radically transformed our way of life. Beyond the direct threat of the virus, the world faced uncertainty, economic stressors, and the emotional weight of lockdowns. This last element, while essential for public health, inadvertently ushered in feelings of isolation and loneliness for many.
For those already grappling with mental health issues, the isolation of quarantine became an exacerbating factor. Heightened stress, lack of routine, and limited social interactions contributed to an increase in anxiety, depressive symptoms, and for some, suicidal ideation.
Addressing the Issue
As we delve deeper into the subject this Suicide Prevention Month, it's paramount to actively engage in solutions:
1. Be Vigilant: Understand the warning signs of suicide, including mood changes, feelings of hopelessness, increased substance use, and behavioral shifts.
2. Open Conversations: Foster an atmosphere where individuals can freely express their feelings without fear of judgment. Simply letting someone know they are heard can be transformative.
3. Seek Professional Help: Advocate for individuals showing signs of suicidal ideation to engage with mental health professionals, whether they are counselors, therapists, or psychiatrists.
4. Promote Mental Health Initiatives: Champion the cause by supporting mental health programs in schools, workplaces, and communities.
5. Stay Connected: Innovate ways to stay socially connected, from virtual hangouts to safe, socially-distanced interactions.
Resources and Support
The current global situation has prompted several organizations to broaden their reach. If you or someone close to you is in crisis, don't hesitate to seek out assistance. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, call or text: 988 offers round-the-clock support.
The essence of Suicide Prevention Month is twofold: to remind us of the silent crisis many face and to galvanize collective action. In our evolving post-pandemic reality, let’s prioritize mental health and create communities that are both supportive and resilient. Remember, a beacon of help is always within reach.
Greg Roussett NP, PhD is a doctorally prepared, board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner offering treatment for anxiety, major depressive disorder, and treats clients holistically. He is a cognitive behavioral therapist, psychopharmacologist (prescribing practices similar to a psychiatrist ), and offers a combination of psychotherapy and medication management to individuals experiencing depression. His office is located in Rockridge in Oakland, CA and provides services across the bay area to those residing in cities inclusive of Piedmont, Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Berkeley, and San Francisco. One of his primary specialties is working with those looking for help with severe anxiety disorders and who experience PTSD as a result of complex trauma. To book a free consultation, click here.