September is Suicide Prevention Month

This is a time to raise awareness and to raise a discussion to shift public perception and to deliver hope and information to those suffering from mental illness and to those hurt by the loss of a loved one to suicide.

Be aware of the warning signs and symptoms that may indicate a mental health evaluation may be warranted:

feeling very sad or withdrawn for more than a few days

change in social drive or interest in connection

seeing, hearing, or believing things that aren't real

trying to harm oneself or end one's life, or a preoccupation with this idea

excessive use of alcohol or drugs

drastic changes in mood or intensely changing moods

severe, out-of-control risk-taking behavior that can cause harm to self or others

changes in sleeping patterns

extreme difficulty concentrating or a change in thinking/memory

sudden, overwhelming fear for no reason, sometimes with a racing heart

persistent physical discomfort or pain without a medical cause

intense worries or fears

significant weight loss or gain

from The NAMI Guide to Navigating Mental Health

Help individuals, friends, families, and suicide survivors have access to the resources they may need. And listen with your heart as you help guide them!

Hope from the Diva,

Anne