Professionals speak on suicide, mental health resources

SAN MARCOS  — According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is among the leading causes of death in the United States, with more than 49,000 occurring in 2022, though, these numbers do not begin to reach the depth of this occurrence. For every suicide, there were 11 emergency department visits for self-harm, 52 self-reported suicide attempts and 336 individuals that seriously considered suicide, said the CDC. For Suicide Prevention Month, co-founders of the Hays-Caldwell Suicide Prevention Coalition and a representative from the Hill Country Mental Health and Development Disabilities Centers discussed the importance of suicide education. Kenneth Elliott, co-founder of the Hays-Caldwell Suicide Prevention Coalition and licensed therapist and counselor, began the organization with former senior living professional Jewel Jankas when the pair noticed the increase of mental health struggles. “In the past three or four years, more and more people are struggling with their emotional and mental health and when the pandemic hit, there was a big spike in concerns over suicidal thoughts and suicidal attempts. Those of us working in the field thought that that might have been a temporary boost in those numbers, but they continue to go up,” said Elliott. Elliott noted that the highest rate of suicide is for those aged 85 and higher; a fact that Jankas corroborated. As a senior living professional, Jankas realized that many older adults, especially after receiving a life-altering diagnosis, simply did not want to be a burden to their families: “From what I have experienced, they don’t want to go through whatever that diagnosis is. They’ve seen [the disease] through friends, family, loved ones, maybe their parents. Alzheimer’s is one diagnosis that has been in the forefront of a lot of discussions about suicide, but it’s any diagnosis to where they feel that they are not going to be themselves.” Citing a book by Dr. Thomas Joyner, Elliott stated that one of the biggest factors of suicide is individuals feeling as though they are a hinderance to the lives of the people they love, as well as isolation. This feeling does not only apply to those who are older, Elliott emphasized, revealing that he has spoken to children with suicidal thoughts that feel the same way. In fact, Hill Country MHDD Director of Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic and Suicide Prevention Lee Ann Lindroth stated that the LGBTQIA+ population, specifically the youth, are at a higher risk for suicidal ideation and attempts. Although the statistics of suicide are high, it's important to note that there are several ways to support a loved one who is facing these thoughts, find resources and prevent these numbers from rising. There are actively 2,522 individuals being served by Hill Country MHDD, 574 of which have been served in a time of active crisis, said Lindroth. “Suicidal ideation and suicide attempts are a product of intense psychological pain,” Lindroth explained. “It is rarely the case that an individual who is considering suicide wants to die. Instead, they may see it as the only way to stop the pain that they are experiencing. Suicide prevention and intervention is often about buying enough time to create conditions for the individual to see another path to relief.” There are several observations that may reveal that someone is thinking of suicide, said Elliott, including the following: • Direct statements, such as “I wish I were dead” or “I’m going to end it all.” • Indirect statements, such as “I’m tired of life,” “What’s the use of going on?” and “You would be better off without me.” • Behavior clues could include stockpiling pills, putting personal or business affairs in order, making funeral plans, sudden interest or disinterest in church or religion, relapse in alcohol or drug use after a period of recovery, giving away prized possessions and more. • Situational clues include: loss of or perceived rejection from a loved one; unwanted separation or divorce; death of a spouse, child or friend; rapid decline in health or a diagnosis of terminal illness; and more. The most support someone can show a loved-one experiencing this pain is through listening, said the professionals. “Lecturing, scolding or advice giving might be met with resistance to talk or shutting down altogether,” said Elliott. “Instead, take your time, listen as non-judgmentally as possible and let the person know that you care, that they matter and you would like to help them get the help and support they need.” Similarly, Lindroth stated that finding what could still connect this individual to life and a way to support it is important. Options of support could be setting up an appointment with Hill Country MHDD or any counseling service, calling Hill Country MHDD at 877-466-0660, texting HOME to 741741 for a crisis text line or dialing 988. According to Elliott, in the two years of service, 10 million people have dialed 988 for support and help. Other ways to aid in suicide prevention is by actively being involved in community groups, whether this be volunteer groups, a faith-based organization or simply attending events to find a support group. A positive support group and environment can help prevent isolation and hopelessness, Elliott said. “Please reach out,” stressed Elliott about hesitation in asking for help. “There’s a large number of people that want to make a difference, care to make a difference. There’re resources; there’s support.” For those interested in learning more about suicide prevention, the Hays-Caldwell Suicide Prevention Coalition offers a free class titled “QPR,” which is Question, Persuade and Refer suicide prevention. There are no education or experience requirements for the course; it is offered to all individuals, said Elliott. To sign up, email ccspc2022@gmail.com. Hill Country MHDD also offers community training and courses, which can be found at www.hillcountry.org. “If one person’s life has been positively impacted by our efforts, it’s all worthwhile,” concluded Elliott. If you or a loved one is experiencing suicidal thoughts, help is available at the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.