As the suicide rate in America rises, steps must be taken now more than ever to put an end to it. That’s why September 9 through 15 now stands as National Suicide Prevention Week, as established by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). This foundation aims to reduce the suicide rate by raising awareness and education about suicide, funding research, and providing help to people affected by suicide. Last week they drove home the point that through the power of connection, suicide can be prevented.
On Monday, September 10, a suicide prevention training, hosted by various mental health organizations on campus, took place as part of National Suicide Prevention Week at FSU. Attendees learned about a process for helping those struggling with suicidal thoughts by using the acronym, QPR: Question a person about suicide, Persuade the person to get help, and Refer the person to the appropriate resource. Many other events were held around the nation during this week with the goal of addressing suicide prevention.
A big element in the prevention of suicide is awareness and discussion. Executive board member, Savannah Woller, of NAMI, a club that advocates for year-long mental health, explains how this week contributes to the vital beginning step.
“National Suicide Prevention Week is important to me because of the conversation it starts,” Woller said. “Suicide is sometimes seen as this taboo topic that is rarely discussed. By starting this dialogue, it can prevent suicides from happening and raise awareness.”
Although it may be an unspoken topic among a large portion of society, mental health and suicide comprise just another aspect of health, alongside physical health, a topic widely talked about in America. National Suicide Prevention Week attempts to get the conversation going in the same way people talk about exercise and nutrition.
“Suicide is the second leading cause of death in individuals ages 15-35, and the numbers keep rising. Now more than ever, maintaining good mental health is just as crucial as maintaining good physical health. Since mental illness is not something that we can see with our eyes, many disregard it as ‘nonexistent,’ which can make some people feel like they have to suffer in silence. It is okay to not always be okay. Life can be hard, but we make it harder by pretending it isn’t,” NAMI executive board member, Carolina Paz said.
Along with creating awareness through this week, the AFSP strives to reduce the negative stigma surrounding the topic of suicide. People sometimes stray from talking about the subject due to its upsetting nature or the lack of knowledge and acceptance of the topic.
“I hope people can start to see the light in these topics because even though they are scary and can be intimidating there’s no reason to judge someone for struggling with mental health or suicide. And no one should ever feel alone, guilty or judged because at the end of the day if you’re struggling with suicide or mental health in general, it’s not your fault. You have the ability to take that next step toward improving those struggles,” Alivea Arroyo said.
Due to the lack of conversation surrounding suicide, those struggling begin to feel alone. Social isolation, whether intended or not, can be detrimental to one’s mental health. This is why during this week, the AFSP emphasizes the importance of social interaction and making sure our peers are doing alright. With this concept in mind, Addison Mathis, a third-year student at FSU formed a chapter of an organization called You’re Not Alone (YNA). This club provides a safe space on campus for students with mental health struggles to feel comfortable sharing their stories and become part of a community of understanding and hope. Mathis shared her views on mental health, along with how she maintains her own.
“Mental health is something that I work to maintain every single day. It comes easier for some than others, but it is worth working for regardless. The truth is that self-care sometimes sucks, but it is oh so essential; I force myself to get out of bed even when I don’t want to. I drink lots and lots of water. I try to eat mindfully and nourish my body well. I journal, call a friend, feel my feelings, go for a drive, read an uplifting book, bake for someone else or paint a picture when I know that’s what I need. I want to fight for my happiness because it’s worth fighting for,” Mathis said.
As part of the executive board of NAMI, Rickari Trevorah holds a strong passion for letting others know that mental health problems, such as suicide, should be talked about and addressed for the sake of making sure everyone is okay.
“I would like to encourage anyone who may feel like there’s no longer any hope or any reason to keep trying. I know that it looks like there’s no light at the end of the tunnel, but I promise there is, and it does get better. Talk with someone you know and trust and allow those who love you to help. Don’t stay silent,” Trevorah said.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, the following resources are available to help:
For Everyone:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1-800-273-8255
Available 24/7
Crisis Text Line
741-741
Available 24/7
For FSU Students:
University Counseling Center
Walk-in appointments Askew Student Life Center,
Suite 201 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m
(850) 644-TALK (8255)