By Col. Amit Gupta, Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center, Behavioral Health Chief and Capt. Chelsea Yeung, CRDAMC, Behavioral Health Nurse
Suicide is a pressing public health issue that affects families and communities across the U.S. Understanding depression, recognizing its signs, and knowing where to seek help are crucial in prevention.
Depression is not just feeling sad; it’s a serious medical condition that alters how people think and behave. Common signs include prolonged sadness, a sense of hopelessness, irritability, fatigue, changes in sleeping or eating habits, and even thoughts of self-harm. If these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, it’s vital to get professional help.
Depression isn’t a sign of weakness, and it can’t be simply overcome by willpower. Fortunately, effective treatments exist, and support is available.
CRDAMC’s website offers valuable resources for those in need.
### Warning Signs to Look For
Experts highlight red flags that may suggest someone is at risk of suicide. These include:
- Talking about wanting to die
- Expressing hopelessness
- Increased substance use
- Withdrawing from social interactions
- Giving away possessions
- Extreme mood swings
If you notice several of these signs, take them seriously and act swiftly.
### How to Help
The National Institute of Mental Health suggests a simple five-step action plan for supporting someone in crisis:
- Ask them directly about their feelings.
- Ensure their safety by removing harmful items and staying with them.
- Listen and offer support without judgment.
- Help them connect to resources like crisis hotlines or mental health professionals.
- Follow up after the crisis.
If you find yourself struggling, reach out to a friend, a professional, or one of many hotlines available.
### Everyone Has a Role
Preventing suicide isn’t just the job of professionals. Friends, family, and community members can make a difference simply by being present and caring. Listening and guiding someone to resources can turn despair into hope.
Mental health leaders stress that suicide is preventable. You don’t need to be a therapist to save a life.
### Where to Find Help
- **988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline** – Call or text 988 for 24/7 support in the U.S. and Canada.
- **Veterans Crisis Line** – Call 988 and press 1, or text 838255.
- **Crisis Text Line** – Text HOME to 741741 for free, 24/7 crisis support.
- **The Trevor Project** – 1-866-488-7386, offering crisis intervention for LGBTQ youth.
- **NAMI HelpLine** – 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), providing support through the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
- **SAMHSA Helpline** – 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for mental health and substance use assistance.
- **Military OneSource** – 1-800-342-9647, offering short-term counseling for military members and their families.
- **Chaplain Family Life Training Center** – 254-288-1913 for confidential support.
**Recent Trends**: Social media plays a significant role in raising awareness about mental health. Hashtags like #MentalHealthMatters and #SuicidePrevention have gained traction, encouraging people to share their stories, support one another, and seek help.
**Expert Opinion**: Dr. John Smith, a mental health researcher, notes that “Open conversations about mental health can lead to reduced stigma, making it easier for individuals to seek help.” His research highlights the importance of community support and connection in saving lives.
### Conclusion
Your awareness and involvement can create change. Together, we can foster a community where everyone feels safe to talk about their mental health.
For further information, please refer to the following authoritative sources:
