Suicide Prevention Month: Find Hope in Self-Healing
Chances are you or someone you know has been affected by suicide, whether a friend or loved one has taken their life, attempted to do so, or expressed suicidal thoughts. Perhaps you even find yourself in despair and can’t believe things will ever get better. Our hearts are with you, and while we know life may be difficult now, it won’t always be that way.
September is National Suicide Prevention Month, so at Firefly, we want everyone to know that we are here, ready to offer soothing self-care and the hope that comes from knowing you are not alone.
Warning Signs
The National Institute of Mental Health offers a helpful list of behaviors to look for if you are worried someone is suicidal:
- Talking about shame, guilt, or burdening others
- Expressing that they want to die
- Feelings of profound sadness, hopelessness, or unbearable pain
- Mood swings that include anxiety, agitation, or rage
- Engaging in risky behaviors
- Withdrawing from friends and family members
- Researching methods of suicide
According to the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 5.2% of U.S. adults thought seriously about suicide that year. If you or someone you love feels hopeless, it’s crucial to talk about your feelings with someone who can help. If you need compassionate counseling at any time of the day, any day of the year, you can reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 or chatting at 988lifeline.org. (You can also contact the lifeline if you need help for a friend or family member.)
How Firefly Can Help
Self-care has been shown to help ease symptoms of anxiety and depression, which are two critical factors that can contribute to suicidal thoughts.
It starts with daily habits like eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep. Some people also find it helpful to abstain from alcohol, smoking, or recreational drug use, and instead take up healthy practices like meditation or gratitude journaling. Self-care can also include therapy and time spent with trusted friends and family members.
And self-care means taking the time to release stress, ease tension, and elevate your mood. These are all things massage can accomplish. The Mayo Clinic reports that massage lowers production of the cortisol stress hormone while increasing the mood-boosting serotonin hormone. It also offers the comfort that comes from human touch, which nurtures your body, soul, and spirit. Our therapists understand the important mental and emotional benefits of massage, and they are here to help with personalized care.
And you can help, too. Consider volunteering your time with a local organization like the San Diego chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). One of our Firefly clients volunteers for this nonprofit, and we have donated to its Hike for Hope. (Another AFSP event, the Out of the Darkness Community Walk, takes place Oct. 19 at Liberty Station.)At Firefly, every one of our clients is valuable. We are here for you, whatever you are facing in your life. If you need help, reach out to a trusted individual and make time to join us in a space where you are heard, you are seen, and you are cared for.
