Destigmatizing Suicide
Experiencing factors such as minority-related stress, discrimination, and poverty can disproportionately impact one’s ability to cope with suicidal thoughts and hopelessness. This can be especially true in men as they were found to be less likely to use mental health services when facing stressful life events. In 2019, the CDC found that suicide rates for Black men were 4x higher than Black women.
Within the Black population, suicide rates were found to peak during adolescence and young adulthood. In 2019, the CDC reported that suicide was the second leading cause of death for African Americans ages 15 to 24.
According to the Trevor Project, 1 in 3 Black transgender youth have tried to end their life within the past year. Black transgender and non-binary youth are 2x more likely to attempt suicide as compared to cisgender Black peers.
The following tips are adopted from the National Association of School Psychologists & the Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
TIPS TO WORK THROUGH SUICIDAL THOUGHTS
Practice self care
Engage in activities that help release stress and promote resilience
Aromatherapy
Exercise, stretching, or yoga
Shower or bathe
Talk to someone/use your support network
Use available resources
Crisis hotlines
Virtual Hope Box phone app
Therapist
Create a safety plan
Allow yourself to cry without self-judgement
Write down empowering quotes or positive affirmations
Write down negative thoughts and tear the paper apart
TIPS FOR SUPPORTING SOMEONE
Remain calm
Listen to the person's feelings
Be empathetic & nonjudgemental
If warning signs are present, check in about thoughts of suicide.
Talking about suicide can feel uncomfortable, but it is important to discuss and assess for safety.
If a safety plan is in place, review and use coping skills listed
Show compassion through reassurance and affirmation
Be sure to find support and take care of yourself
Get help
Call 911
Crisis Hotlines
Seek out a therapist or school counselor
