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Kindness is more than being nice...

  • Writer: Zachary Blazier
    Zachary Blazier
  • Nov 20, 2019
  • 2 min read

Are you feeling overwhelmed? Work, school, activities, holiday commitments, and daily life struggles? Don't let the chaos of the season change how we treat others. If you are in pain, depressed, or carrying anxiety and feel the thought of 'hopelessness' TALK to someone for help. You matter and are needed.

Every eight hours, a Hoosier dies from suicide, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.  Understanding what depression is critical to help others or even ourselves. When someone struggles with depression, the chemicals in their brain, serotonin, and dopamine, are depleted. This hopelessness can often drive suicidal thoughts.

Suicide is not just for adults. Our youth are experiencing a rise in death and attempts of suicide. Why? According to Brandi Christiansen, executive director of Mental Health American of North Central Indiana. "Their prefrontal cortex hasn't been developed yet — that's your impulse control and the part of the brain that puts on the brakes and makes rational decisions." Christiansen also notes how social media is also a driving force. Suicide is preventable. We must take action.

Have an honest conversation

If you think someone is thinking about suicide, assume you are the only one who will reach out. Here’s how to talk to someone who may be struggling with their mental health.

  1. Talk to them in private

  2. Listen to their story

  3. Tell them you care about them

  4. Ask directly if they are thinking about suicide

  5. Encourage them to seek treatment or to contact their doctor or therapist

  6. Avoid debating the value of life, minimizing their problems or giving advice

If a person says they are considering suicide

  1. Take the person seriously

  2. Stay with them

  3. Help them remove lethal means

  4. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255

  5. Text TALK to 741741 to text with a trained crisis counselor from the Crisis Text Line for free, 24/7

  6. Escort them to mental health services or an emergency room

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