Mental Health is a priority and we invite you to join us on Sunday, October 17th at 1pm as we walk with hundreds of cities across the country to give people the courage to open up about their own connections to the cause and give us a platform to create a culture that’s smarter about mental health. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention states that their mission is to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide. Starting in 2004 AFSP’s Out of the Darkness walks have started a movement to raise awareness and funds to fight this leading cause of death. Together, our community sends the message that you are never alone, that healing is possible, and when we connect, we create hope. No matter what your connection is to suicide, by joining the BG Out of the Darkness Walk, you can show people that we are strong, we are resilient and we are hopeful. Together, we can create a culture that’s smart about mental health. Learn more and at www.afsp.org/bowlinggreen.
Money raised from our walk goes to research, advocacy, support and education on a state and national level. Now more than ever Mental Health is on our radar and AFSP has a bold goal of reducing suicide by 20% by 2025 and you can help make this happen. Make talking about Mental Health a priority because Talking Saves Lives!
What is Mental Health?
Mental Health is important, it is something everyone has, it is part of being human, it is something we need to look after and it is complex. Mental health isn’t a sign of weakness, it is not shameful or all in your mind. It’s not always negative, something you should think about only when it feels broken and it isn’t feeling good all the time. It is not something you can snap out of. Keeping these points in mind before starting a conversation can ease the awkwardness.
Factors about Mental Health.
Factors that play into mental health include diet, physical health, genetics, stress, environment, relationships, substance abuse, trauma and losses.
What are some signs?
Watch for when people start becoming negative about life and they may even talk about feeling hopeless. Some things to look for in teens is that they may start harming themselves or taking more risks than usual. Sometimes people don’t act like themselves and are more irritable. Often people’s minds might be somewhere else or they don’t feel like spending time with others, they also may feel anxious and can’t relax. Knowing some of these signs can help you be aware of what to look for. I know a lot of people reading this may think that nowadays this is a perfect description of their teens and friends but these are perfect examples of why these conversations are so important.
Five Ways to Start a Conversation.
1. Hey, we haven’t talked in a while. How are you?
2. Are you OK? You don’t seem like yourself lately.
3. Hey, you seem frustrated today. I am here for you.
4. Seems like something’s up. Do you wanna talk about what’s going on?
5. I’m worried about you and would like to know what’s up so I can help.
During the Conversation
Do…
Listen without judgment. Ask, “How can I help?” Let them know you care and validate their feelings. Listen to intentions to understand and not fix and be patient.
Don’t…
Interrupt or speak over or tell them how they should feel. Don’t jump in with solutions or pressure them to speak. Don’t be critical or blaming. Remember that life is hard and we all handle it differently.
After the Conversation.
Reinforce getting help and don’t give up on having conversations. Keep invitations going and handle their trust with care. Get outside help and if this concerns kids or teens get help from trusted adults.
SEIZE THE AWKWARD!
The conversation can be uncomfortable but it can make all the difference and they will save lives.
Last but not least, we could not do this without our Community Support. They always show up.
Cheetah Clean Car Wash
Rivendell Behavioral Health
Lifeskills
Hughes & Coleman
First Bank
Thanks for taking the time to read this and look into the walk. This walk is especially close to my heart as I have lost a brother by suicide. I know that this walk and all the people I have met along the way have helped me heal. Because of AFSP I have a better understanding of mental health and the pain that is so many times hidden. I cannot imagine a world without their help. I want to thank the BG area for making this walk a success. See you soon!
-by Katelyn Simpson
