Every year on September 10th, World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) brings global attention to the critical issue of suicide, a tragedy that touches families, friends, and communities worldwide. It’s a day for reflection, understanding, and action—an opportunity to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote prevention efforts. This year on WSPD at Restoration Psychology, we want to explore how the right support plays a pivotal role in suicide prevention and how counseling can greatly impact one’s mental health.
Understanding the Suicide Crisis
Depression, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health disorders are common challenges, but for some, the weight of these struggles can feel unbearable. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 700,000 people die by suicide each year, with many more who attempt to take their own lives. These statistics remind us that behind every number is a person—a life lost too soon.
Suicide is complex and influenced by a combination of factors, including mental health issues, life circumstances, and emotional pain. But one consistent theme is that those struggling often feel isolated and hopeless. Many people suffering from mental health problems do not seek help due to stigma, fear, or lack of access to support.
The Role of Counseling in Suicide Prevention
One of the most effective ways to support mental health is through counseling. Having the right support system, including professional mental health services, can significantly impact those who are struggling. While friends and family play vital roles in offering emotional support, mental health professionals provide the expertise needed to guide individuals through their pain.
Counseling can make a difference by:
- Creating a Safe Space: For those battling mental health issues, counseling offers a judgment-free space where individuals can express their thoughts and emotions. This is especially important for those contemplating suicide, as they often feel they have no one to turn to.
- Developing Coping Strategies: Counselors can help individuals develop coping mechanisms to manage anxiety, depression, and other overwhelming emotions. These strategies can help reduce the feelings of hopelessness that may lead to suicidal thoughts.
- Identifying Underlying Issues: Sometimes, the reasons behind suicidal ideation are linked to unresolved trauma, relationship issues, or chemical imbalances. A trained mental health clinician can work with an individual to uncover these root causes and help work through struggles.
- Building Resilience: Therapy helps individuals build emotional resilience, equipping them with the tools needed to face life's challenges more effectively. This resilience can be life-saving in moments of crisis.
- Connecting to Additional Resources: Mental health professionals can connect individuals to support groups, crisis helplines, or psychiatric services when necessary. This network of support can make all the difference in preventing a tragedy.
Start the Conversation
World Suicide Prevention Day reminds us that the right support can be the difference between life and death for many individuals. In addition to professional help, there is also a powerful role that each of us can play: fostering open, compassionate conversations. The theme for this year’s World Suicide Prevention Day is "Changing the Narrative on Suicide," with the call to action being to "Start the Conversation." When we start the conversation—whether through sharing our own experiences, encouraging others to seek help, or simply listening with compassion—we contribute to creating a world where no one feels they have to face their struggles alone.
If you or someone you know is struggling,
reach out to us and together, by prioritizing mental health and changing the narrative on suicide, we can pursue greater restoration for your heart, mind, and soul.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or text "HELLO" to 741741 for the Crisis Text Line. If you are in need of a
therapist in Centennial, CO or a
psychologist in Centennial, CO, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at 720-647-1522.