Suicide Prevention Info- September is National Suicide Awareness Month!!
Are you or someone you know considering suicide? Do you feel suicidal? Do you need a fast way of getting help for someone? STOP! Look no further. Here at Spiritual Warfare Reserach and Development we WANT to and WILL help you!!! We take suicide very seriously! When it comes to suicide every second counts and 1 phone call or mouse click could make all the difference in whether someone lives or dies. On our facebook page and this website we want everyone to feel safe here. This is a place to learn, grow in faith, Strength and Courage ... Lack of Knowledge is lik a flower with out it's fragrance. All it takes is one person to make a difference.
By Law we as a ministry Must report threats, thoughts or considerations of suicide. If you would like our help then please check out the information below. If someone is actually trying to attempt it please call 911 immediately! The faster help arrives, the faster a live can be saved. Below are resources for you to use in addition to contacting us. If you'd rather use the tools instead that's fine as well we just want to make sure you know we are here incase you need some extra help and support. Please know we are praying for you during this time in your life and if you need prayer requests, please use the prayer request center tab under the contact us tab. Do you have a safety plan? Please use the PDF form to form yours today..... Additional information is below in PD form also as well as resource links.
Brown_StanleySafetyPlan
Template.pdf
Suicide prevention on Bridges:
The national Suicide prevention Position Document
Suicide Risk Factors
Risk factors are often confused with warning signs of suicide, and frequently suicide prevention materials mix the two into lists of “what to watch out for.” It is important to note, however, that factors identified as increasing risk are not factors that cause or predict a suicide attempt. Risk factors are characteristics that make it more likely that an individual will consider, attempt, or die by suicide. Protective factors are characteristics that make it less likely that individuals will consider, attempt, or die by suicide.
Risk Factors for Suicide
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Mental disorders, particularly mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders and certain personality disorders
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Alcohol and other substance use disorders
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Hopelessness
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Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies
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History of trauma or abuse
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Major physical illnesses
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Previous suicide attempt
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Family history of suicide
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Job or financial loss
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Loss of relationship
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Easy access to lethal means
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Local clusters of suicide
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Lack of social support and sense of isolation
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Stigma associated with asking for help
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Lack of health care, especially mental health and substance abuse treatment
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Cultural and religious beliefs, such as the belief that suicide is a noble resolution of a personal dilemma
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Exposure to others who have died by suicide (in real life or via the media and Internet)
Protective Factors for Suicide
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Effective clinical care for mental, physical and substance use disorders
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Easy access to a variety of clinical interventions
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Restricted access to highly lethal means of suicide
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Strong connections to family and community support
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Support through ongoing medical and mental health care relationships
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Skills in problem solving, conflict resolution and handling problems in a non-violent way
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Cultural and religious beliefs that discourage suicide and support self-preservation
(This was adapted from "Understanding Risk and Protective Factors for Suicide” and “Risk and protective factors for suicide" by the Suicide Prevention Resource Center.)
Suicide Warning Signs
The following signs may mean someone is at risk for suicide. The risk of suicide is greater if a behavior is new or has increased and if it seems related to a painful event, loss, or change. If you or someone you know exhibits any of these signs, seek help as soon as possible by calling the Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
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Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves.
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Looking for a way to kill themselves, such as searching online or buying a gun
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Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
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Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.
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Talking about being a burden to others.
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Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.
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Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly.
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Sleeping too little or too much.
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Withdrawing or isolating themselves.
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Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.
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Displaying extreme mood swings.
Therapy
Speaking to a therapist or attending a support group can improve your overall mental health. The following resources can help you find a psychologist, psychiatrist or support group near you.
These resources are on external sites:
Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration
Mental Health Services Locator
Services Locator
Psychology Today Therapist and Support Group Finder
Therapist Finder
American Association of Suicidology
Suicide Loss Survivors Support Group Finder
Survivor Group
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Suicide Bereavement Support Group Finder
Survivor Group
HelpPRO Suicide Prevention Therapist Finder
Therapist Finder
Hope For The Holidays
For some people the “most wonderful time of the year” can feel like the worst. You might be grieving the recent loss of a loved one, spending the special days far from family and friends, stressed over money, and the list goes on. Although the holidays can be difficult, you can take care of yourself and try to stay hopeful. The tips below can help make your holiday more meaningful.
You can also visit our December Self-Care Calendar here!
Surround Yourself with Support
When you’re feeling down it can feel natural to pull away from friends and family- but do your best to avoid too much alone time. Talk about how you are feeling with someone you trust, or call the Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). any time, day or night.
Treat Yourself
Taking care of "you" during the holidays helps to keep your mind and body ready to deal with sadness and stress. It’s important to pay attention to your own needs and feelings so that you are better able to cope with the sadness, anxiety and grief you may feel. If you are a parent or caregiver, it’s crucial for you to take care of your needs first so that you are better able to take care of others around you.
Set Realistic Expectations
This may not be the best holiday you’ve ever had, but with a positive outlook and the support of family and friends you can still make the most of what you have. Be realistic about what you will be able to spend and do during the holiday season and focus on a few special things. Remembering the good times you’ve had in the past can also help to boost your spirits.
Stay Active
Watching TV may help you relax, but the best coping skills are those that engage your mind, body, and spirit. Try writing or drawing in a journal, exercising, cooking, and practicing or taking up a new, creative hobby. These activities will best build your resilience by getting you to focus on positive things whether you are alone or with friends and family.
Volunteer
Performing acts of goodwill during the holidays can make a difference in someone else’s life and help you to feel better about yourself. Volunteer at the Lifeline or search online to find local animal shelters, parks, senior centers, soup kitchens or after-school programs that may need an extra set of hands.
Reach Out for Help
It’s normal to have some not-so-cheery feelings like sadness, confusion and guilt during the holiday. However, if you continue to feel overwhelmed with your emotions and they start to interfere with your daily routine then it’s time to reach out for help. If you need immediate emotional support or want to talk to a caring counselor about what you’re feeling, you can call the Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). any time, day or night.
- By Alicja Patela