Dragons Check on Dragons
The month of September is Suicide Prevention Month. Suicide can be a very challenging and scary situation to approach with others. As difficult as this situation can be, it is important to know how to approach it. Especially since nationwide, there is an increase in reported suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and deaths by suicides. According to NAMI, suicide is “the third leading cause of death among those aged 15-24 and the 12th leading cause of death overall in the U.S.”
What does this mean? Some of our very own Dragons may be experiencing these symptoms. We cannot predict who will experience suicidal ideation, but there are some risk factors that put someone in a situation where they may be more likely to consider, attempt, or die by suicide. These can include but are not limited to: feelings of isolation, loneliness, history of trauma or abuse, lack of healthcare (both physical and mental), loss of relationships, easy access to means, some mental health diagnosis, history of attempts, and major physical health illness.
How can you help? There are five simple things that you can do to check on your fellow dragons if you have a concern.
1. ASK
It can be difficult to start some of these conversations, but some of the best interventions we can offer to our fellow Dragons and others is simply to start a conversation and check in on them.
Using statements such as: “I care about you. I have noticed that you have been more withdrawn lately.”
“I want to be here for you. I get that life is complex – so I’m here to listen and support you.”
Research suggests that acknowledging and talking about suicide may reduce suicidal ideation. Do not be afraid to ask the question: “Are you thinking about killing yourself?”
2. Be There
Listen to what the person has to say without judgment. Do not negate what they are feeling. Allow them to process their emotions.
3. Keep Them Safe
We want to make sure that if someone is experiencing suicidal ideation, we connect them to the resources available. Some of the local resources available are Tiffin University Counseling and Wellness, The Nationwide 988 Lifeline, 911, and other local agencies.
4. Help Them Stay Connected
A risk factor for suicidal ideation is isolation and loneliness. Being a supportive individual and helping them connect to their support system can help individuals take positive action and reduce feelings of hopelessness.
Engaging individuals in campus events, support groups, sporting events, or other social events can be a way to combat isolation and loneliness.
5. Follow Up
Continue to check in with the person you are concerned about. Stopping by their room, text messages and phone calls are quick and simple ways to follow up with an individual.
Suicidal ideation is not an uncommon experience; however, it can be an experience that is difficult to discuss which leads to further isolation. In addition to TU Counseling and Wellness office hours, there are supports available 24-7. These include: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a 24/7 free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention, and crisis. Call or Text: 988. The Trevor Project provides information and support to LGBTQ young people. Call: 866-488-7386 Text: 678-678. The Steve Fund is dedicated to supporting the mental health and emotional well-being of young people of color. Text STEVE to 741741. Call BlackLine is a nonjudgmental, affirming, supportive, listener-witness and information-gathering about your experience. BlackLine prioritizes BIPOC folx. Call or text: 800-604-5841.
By guest contributor Erin Jensen Skeel, LPCC-S, the Director of Counseling and Wellness.
