While mental health should be discussed every day, for those who have been reluctant to begin these crucial conversations, there's no better day to start than World Mental Health Day, celebrated annually on Oct. 10.
This year's focus is on suicide prevention. Nearly 800,000 people die by suicide every year, according to the World Health Organization. That comes to one person every 40 seconds. But prevention is something everyone can take part in if they know the right signs to look for in others, as well as how to reach out for help themselves.
The following tweets from mental health organizations and advocates provide resources, tips, and motivation for helping others who are struggling and preventing suicide.
1. Practice empathy and share resources
Spreading empathy changes the world. That’s why on #WorldMentalHealthDay, we created a video that shows where we might be without it (and why we’re not letting that happen). Share #741741 with someone who needs it. https://t.co/nmB3j31nxj
— Crisis Text Line (@CrisisTextLine) October 10, 2019
2. Have real conversations with friends and loved ones
We're challenging you to have a #RealConvo about mental health for #WorldMentalHealthDay. Whether you're concerned for a friend or need to lean on a loved one for support, check out https://t.co/OK1JVZppSv to help you get started! pic.twitter.com/r7nxCownFr
— American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (@afspnational) October 10, 2019
3. Learn how employers and managers can prevent suicide
Being at work can be good for #mentalhealth, but a negative working environment or work-related stress can lead to physical & mental health problems.
This is what employers & managers can do to help prevent #suicide among employees➡️ https://t.co/YhqnIBNR3h #WorldMentalHealthDay pic.twitter.com/BBroPmQHhG— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) October 10, 2019
4. Learn about treatment options
Depression and anxiety require understanding and medical care. If feelings of anxiety or depression are overwhelming & prevent you from doing everyday activities, there is hope. Learn more about treatment options: https://t.co/XB9g023ayw#MentalIllnessAwarenessWeek pic.twitter.com/8YgHDvUoUQ
— NAMI (@NAMICommunicate) October 10, 2019
5. Identify signs of crisis
Signs a loved one is in crisis:
- Prolonged sadness/depression
- Changes in mood/behavior
- Hopelessness
- Sleeping too much/too little
- Withdrawing/Isolation
- Aggression/agitation
- Increased alcohol/drug use
- Talking about killing themselves#WorldMentalHealthDay pic.twitter.com/mAiuOtieSu— Moms Demand Action (@MomsDemand) October 10, 2019
6. Avoid stigma and taboo
Stigma and taboo often prevents communities talking openly about mental health problems. #WorldMentalHealthDay is a reminder that we must make it OK #ForEveryChild and young person to talk about mental health. https://t.co/5jUUNYU2U4
— Henrietta H. Fore (@unicefchief) October 10, 2019
If you want to talk to someone or are experiencing suicidal thoughts, text the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. For international resources, this list is a good place to start.
