How can you tell if a friend is in trouble or struggling with suicidal thoughts? And how can you support them in finding help?
Are you feeling virtually exhausted? Life is always challenging, but the mental fallout of a global pandemic is real. Contributing to the loneliness epidemic is the shifting American lifestyle. More Americans live alone (28%) now than ever before, and fewer have kids.
First, let’s acknowledge this is a time of anxiety and worry for everyone. Economic uncertainty, job transitions, grief, and loneliness are a perfect storm for mental stress. Even before the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic mental health was a concerning issue, now it is a relevant topic of crisis.
Secondly, anyone can struggle with suicidal thoughts. Those suffering from drug addiction are especially vulnerable. In particular the U.S. is currently seeing a rise in drug overdoses by almost 18% due to the pandemic. Unfortunately, suicide is responsible for one U.S. death every 11 minutes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Not to mention the millions who think about it, make a plan or attempt it. It is important to remember that suicidal thoughts, plans or intent must be helped immediately.
Understanding Suicide Risk
To clarify, depression is not a choice. No one wishes for endless days of feeling down, sleepless nights, and feeling as if you are in a dark tunnel. Currently, one in five Americans will experience a mental illness this year. This means one of your friends is struggling, right now. Specifically, consider this: When your body feels pain it talks to your mind. When your mind is suffering who does it talk to?
So, how can you tell if a friend is in trouble? According to the National Institute of Mental Health be on the lookout for some depression clues below.
Signs and Symptoms of Depression
Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
Feelings of hopelessness, or pessimism
Irritability
Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
Decreased energy or fatigue
Moving or talking more slowly
Feeling restless or having trouble sitting still
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
Signs and Symptoms of Suicide Risk
Expressing feelings of hopelessness or having no purpose
Talking about feeling trapped or being in unbearable pain
The holiday season is right around the corner, and the promise of the new year follows closely behind. It is often seen as a time of joy, celebration and connection—but for many teens, it can also be a period of emotional strain. Laura Dykins, APRN, a nurse practitioner with Renown Children’s Primary Care, emphasizes how important it is to understand what hardships teens may experience during the holiday months and how we can offer meaningful support to teenagers and their families.
The holidays are often seen as a time of reflection and celebration with loved ones. However, amidst everyday stressors and increased commitments to friends and family, this festive season can also bring feelings of exhaustion or sadness, commonly referred to as the holiday blues or holiday depression.
According to a survey conducted by the American Psychiatric Association, 40% of Americans anticipate more holiday stress this year, an increase from 28% the previous year. Mark Brehm, Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Renown Behavioral Health, shares more about signs and symptoms of the holiday blues and practical tips for managing them.
When someone is facing a mental health emergency, they need a safe, calm place to go. The Renown Crisis Care Center is now open again—offering 24/7 support for adults in crisis who need help right away.
