September is here! It’s almost officially autumn and the beginning of all things fall in the northern hemisphere: changing leaves, pumpkin spice, cooler weather, and Samhaim (or Halloween, All Hallows Eve, whichever you celebrate). Stores are filling up with all the dark, creepy, and horror vibes I do very much enjoy.
But September is also Suicide Awareness Month. Mental health, especially suicide awareness is a time to raise awareness, clear up common misunderstandings, and highlight how marginalized and underrepresented individuals are affected. Almost 80% of people who die by suicide are male, and queer youth are nearly 4x more likely to attempt suicide than straight youth (Data from CDC and NIMH). Male and nonbinary people often experience a higher level of stigma and criticism around mental health which often inhibits them from talking about their needs and getting the appropriate help.
How Do I Help?
Maybe you know someone who struggles with mental health. Maybe you yourself are struggling. It can be difficult to know what to say to someone who is struggling with their mental health (suicidal ideations or not) because you want to be appropriate, avoid dismissive language, and convey empathy with respect. While there is no formula for what to say, something that may be helpful is to ask them what they need, ie: “Do you need a hug, feedback, or a listening ear.” This is a way to kindly ask about boundaries.
Do your Research – There are many resources and blogs from professionals, survivors, and individuals that give insight. *Not all professionals are created equal. Look for recommended, accredited, and peer reviewed professional works.
Practice Active Listening – Active listening is listening without making judgements. It is a way to show the other person is being heard and validated.
Check in – Sometimes just checking in with others can lift their spirits. A funny joke, meme, or smile. As someone who suffers from depression, the feelings of loneliness and isolation can come seemingly out of nowhere and for no seemingly rational reason at all. I’m just…sad. But seeing the funny meme pop up on my phone is a bit of a distraction, something to make me smile and take my mind off the sads.
There is more I could list here, but the goal is not to write a 5k page essay. It is just to give a little reminder about the challenges of mental health and suicide.
Everyone is unique in how they feel. One person may feel depression in a completely different way than another. This month, take a moment to explore mental health and suicide information or practice active listening, or take a step towards your own mental health.
Do you need a hug, feedback, or a listening ear?
Sharing Experiences
Throughout this month, we will be sharing blogs and resources from marginalized individuals. We feel that it is important to highlight the underrepresented and elevate their voices and experiences to create more awareness. With every story, with every nonjudgemental connection, we can build hope for those who struggle alone in the darkness.
Look out for posts on our blog from Sam Hale, Frank Tybush V, Shea Ballard, and Ulff Lehmann. If you have a story, we would love to work with you. Send us a message at contact@inkedingray.com.
Crisis Resources
If you or some one you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 or chat with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988lifeline.org.
If you find yourself in a situation where you feel unsafe or are feeling like you need some extra support, here are some mental health information and resources you may be able to utilize.
United States
International and Outside US
