Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month
September is National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, and September 10th-16th is National Suicide Prevention Week. There are an average of 123 suicides each day in this country. Suicidal thoughts can plague anyone regardless of age, gender, or social status. Commonly linked to depression, there is no foolproof indicator of suicidal tendencies. Many people suffering from depression or suicidal thoughts cover them up quite well.
I would know. All through middle school and high school I had these [suicidal] thoughts and didn’t tell anyone until years later. Literally NO ONE knew I was suffering - friends, family, or teachers. Why did I have this ideation? No idea! Later on, therapists would ask me countless times if I had been abused or suffered something traumatic in my childhood, and I didn’t. I had a pretty great childhood and the most amazing supportive and loving parents. There’s still so much we don’t know about the brain - psychiatry is far from perfect - but until we start really opening up about mental health it will continue to have stigma attached.
I’m grateful I took charge of my mental health early on and have been able to maintain a relatively “normal” life. Unfortunately my story is not uncommon. The fear and stigma surrounding mental health continues to prevent people from seeking support. What’s worse is that when people seek help, they often don’t get the support they need and end up losing hope. I’ll be the very first to admit that our behavioral health system is deeply flawed. But the only way it gets better is if we advocate for greater investments in research, an increase in the number providers with better training, more compassionate care [i.e., peer specialists, recovery coaches, CACs] that meet people where they are, and equitable access to these services for under resourced communities.
We have some great resources in Colorado for anyone coping with mental health challenges.
Our friends at Second Wind Fund offer free therapy for children and adolescents (up to 19 years of age).
Out Boulder County provides free and low-cost therapy, case management, and peer-based recovery services for LGBTQ+ youth and adults.
Colorado Crisis Services - the state’s crisis support line and walk-in treatment services.
For those without insurance, Khesed Wellness, outpatient mental health treatment at reduced rates or free for qualifying individuals.
For individuals on Medicaid or Medicare, Heartland Mental Health offers outpatient therapy, case management, medication management, and peer support in Capitol Hill.
Are you or someone you know in a crisis? Call or text 988 or text TALK to 741741