Tag: suicide prevention

Posted in mental illness

World Teen Mental Health Day

Posted on by Penny Wilson Writes

Being a teen is hard enough.  If you add mental health struggles to that, makes life for some unbearable.  In this world of social media, peer pressures can be amplified.  Anxiety and Depression are the most common issues dealt with. 

Depression and Anxiety should not be taken lightly.  Teen suicides have increased dramatically since 2019.  

What can you do to help?  

*Be watchful of behavioral changes in your teen.  Are they isolating themselves more?  Have they lost interest in things that used to bring them joy?  Is your teen sleeping more or have a change in their eating habits?  

*Listen without judgement.  So often, people will keep the signs of Anxiety and Depression hidden for fear of being judged.  The feeling of shame is strong among those that suffer because of the stigma attached.  

*Talk to your teen.  Be willing to start the conversation.  We, as parents, don’t always know what to do, so we hope they will “grow out of it”, or that it’s “just a phase” they are going through.  Because your teen is keeping things to themselves, you will often need to make the first move to start the conversation about what they are struggling with.  

*Reach out.  Seek help in dealing with your teen’s struggles.  If you don’t know where to start, often your family doctor can help steer you in the right direction for resources in your area.  

*Educate yourself.  Being aware of the issues and their symptoms can be a huge help.  There are many helpful websites for this.  This is a good place to start: https://988lifeline.org/

The Suicide Prevention Hotline Phone # is 988. 

You don’t need to be experiencing a crisis to contact a crisis hotline. At most of these hotlines, the volunteers and counselors who answer calls, texts and chat messages are trained to help someone in crisis. But you can also reach out if you’re feeling sad, anxious or stressed and don’t know where to turn. 

These hotlines also serve friends, family members and loved ones of someone who is experiencing a mental health crisis, domestic violence, abuse, addiction and many other issues. 

Even if someone at a crisis hotline cannot help you with your specific needs, they can point you to the right resources that can. No one will ever make you feel bad for trying to get help, and no concern is too trivial or small. If it feels hard for you to manage, it’s worth reaching out.

For more information and other helpful resources and articles, please visit my Mental Health Help Page HERE.

Copyright (C) 2023 Penny Wilson

 

Posted in Life, mental illness

Counseling Services Available

Posted on by Penny Wilson Writes

In November of last year, I did a post about Affordable Mental Health Counseling.  You can see that post HERE.

I asked my readers if they had information about Affordable Counseling services to please let me know and I will add it to my Mental Health Help Page.

The nice people at Boca Recovery Center contacted me about their services.  They have 4 locations.  2 in Florida, 1 in Indiana and 1 in New Jersey.  

When it comes to affordability, they offer a program called the Badgley Scholarship where people can write a letter to Boca and one bed is covered free of charge a month at their facilities.  They also have a free 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-516-4357. 

If you have more questions, there is a wealth of information on their website HERE.

There is a growing need for Mental Health Services, especially for those with lower incomes.  If any of my readers has information about these types of services and would like for me to add them to my Mental Health Help Page, please contact me, through my Contact Page, and I would be happy to add the information. 

Copyright 2023 Penny Wilson All Rights Reserved

Posted in depression, Life, mental illness, Writing

New Year and Depression

Posted on by Penny Wilson Writes

As the end of the year approaches, we all tend to reflect on what has happened over the course of the year.  I want to go back a little further than that.

In May of 2017, I came out of a several-years-long depression.  I remember it so clearly.  It was like a veil had been lifted and I was seeing the world for the first time.

With this in mind, I looked back at my stats for the last couple of year here on WordPress.

In 2017 there was a good-sized spike in my activity here.  That new enthusiasm to write was due to the “awakening” from my depression.

My Most Viewed post of all time has been one I titled Depression-A-Killer.  That tells me that there is still a HUGE need for enlightenment, awareness and information.  The stigma remains, but I do think that the battle to end it is making progress.

Why do I write about Depression?   EVERY DAY 121 Americans commit suicide.  50% of those people suffered from depression.  Reason enough?  I thought so too. If you need help -The Suicide Prevention Hotline, available 24/7 is 1-800-273-8255  Is talking to someone too much for you?  It was for me at times.  There is a Crisis Text Line.  Text 741741 and you can text with a counselor.

The one thing in my life that I am most thankful for is the end of my depression.  Depression took so much from me, it feels amazing to have my life back.  I’m happier than I’ve ever been and my life is full and rich.  I have many, many blessings.

If you would like to see any of the other pieces I’ve written about Depression, you can find those HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE and HERE.

As you can see this is a subject that is important to me. 🙂 ❤

As we go into a new year, I want to thank all of you that have joined me on this up and down journey.  I hope that each of you are blessed with every happiness your heart could desire.

Please check out my page on Mental Health Help HERE. 

*Update from 2023

The post above was originally written in 2018. My depression is thankfully in check.  I cherish each day that I am free from that darkness.  At the end of 2021, I did have a period of time where my Depression and Anxiety peaked.  But early into 2022, that had once again abated.  My life is rich, full and so very blessed. 

Posted in depression, mental illness

Stephen “Twitch” Boss

Posted on by Penny Wilson Writes

EllensGOG-S2-CastBioImage-tWitch-450x450.jpg (450×450)

You may or may not be aware of the passing of Stephen “Twitch” Boss.  He was a lot of things to a lot of people.  Father, husband, dancer, and actor.  He was the Executive Producer of the Ellen DeGeneres Show.  He was also Ellen’s DJ and dance partner. 

Sadly, Twitch lost his life to suicide on December 14th, 2022.  

By all outward appearances, he was a happy, successful person.  I read that one of his friends said that “You never know what’s going on between someone’s ears”.   So true. 

If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to the Suicide Prevention Helpline at 988. 

On my Mental Health Help Page, you can find many sources for help and articles on the subjects of Depression and other Mental Health issues.  HERE is a piece I wrote regarding the link between Depression and Suicide.  

Every day, approximately 130 Americans die by suicide. (CDC)

There is one death every 11 minutes in the U.S. by suicide. (CDC)

Suicide takes the lives of over 48,500 Americans every year. (CDC) 

Nearly 800,000 people die by suicide in the world each year, which is roughly one death every 40 seconds.

Is talking to someone too much for you?  There is a Crisis Text Line.  Text 741741 and you can text with a counselor.

The bottom line is to TALK.  Please, just reach out and TALK to someone.  Anyone.  There is help available.  Just reach out a hand. 

Copyright (C) 2022 Penny Wilson

*Image found online. Acknowledgements to the owner of the image. 

Posted in Life, mental illness

Help Needed – Therapy Information, Please

Posted on by Penny Wilson Writes

I Need Your Help.

I recently had a conversation with a friend who is in need of therapy, as her benefits will soon be expiring.  Where can she turn?  

I’ve been in this situation.  Through my previous employer, I had 3 sessions with a therapist available to me covered by insurance.  3 sessions, didn’t even begin to scratch the surface.  After that, I was on my own to figure out how to pay for it.  

So I started digging into Affordable mental health therapy.  After a few Click Bait websites, I basically found nothing.  I did find one site that would offer me online sessions based on my income.  But even that was too expensive.  

I have a Mental Health Help Page where I have listed contacts for those in crisis, and other resources and articles for those struggling.  BUT… I have NO information for options of Free or Affordable Therapy.  

So I am asking for your help with this.  If you have information on this Much Needed Subject, would you please do what you can to get that information to me?  I’m in the US, but I need info for those not living in the US as well.  Anything information that you can come up with would be appreciated.  

Please, either leave the information in the comments below, use my Contact Page, or simply email me at psnw123@gmail.com

Thank you!!

Posted in depression, mental illness

New Suicide Prevention Hotline – 988 – Is Finally a Reality!

Posted on by Penny Wilson Writes

Finally, in the US, we have a 3 digit number for the Suicide Prevention Hotline.  It’s 988.  This has been slow coming.  Why, I don’t know.  But thank God that it’s finally here!  

If you or someone you know is thinking of suicide, you can now use the 3 digit number to reach a professional that will assist you in getting the help you need.  The old # 1 (800)-273-8255, is still available.  But the new number will be so much easier to remember!  

In the UK, if you’re struggling with negative thoughts or suicidal feelings, you can call the Samaritans at 116 123; and in Australia, call Lifeline at 13 11 14. 

THIS is a wonderful article about several crisis hotlines and texting that is available to a number of different people.  

If you would like more information on Suicide Prevention or Depression, please be sure to visit my Mental Health Help Page HERE.  

Thank you for joining me on this journey.  Penny ❤ Copyright (C) 2022

Posted in depression, Life, mental illness

World Suicide Prevention Day

Posted on by Penny Wilson Writes

The Suicide Prevention Hotline, available 24/7 is 1-800-273-8255 

September 10th is World Suicide Prevention Day.  I have long been an advocate for Mental Health Awareness and Suicide Prevention. I was online doing some research in preparation for this post and I came across some horrifying statistics.   

Why do I support Mental Health Awareness and Suicide Prevention?  See the statistics below and you’ll see why I feel that this is SO important.  Most of the information in the paragraph below came from the website SAVE.ORG.  This site is a wealth of information for those dealing with mental health issues and its aftermath.  Please take a few minutes to browse the site.

Every day, approximately 130 Americans die by suicide. (CDC)

There is one death every 11 minutes in the U.S. by suicide. (CDC)

Suicide takes the lives of over 48,500 Americans every year. (CDC) 

Nearly 800,000 people die by suicide in the world each year, which is roughly one death every 40 seconds.   

These are just a few of the facts surrounding suicide rates.  There are many more, each, seemingly more horrific than the last.  These are the reasons I support awareness efforts.  

I’ve seen first hand what Depression and Mental illness can do to your loved ones and just how dangerous it can be if left unchecked.  Please take a look at my Mental Health Help Page HERE. There is a LOT of information there for you, your loved ones, or anyone that is simply interested in becoming more aware.  I’ve created lots of links that will take you directly to helpful websites and phone numbers that can be helpful as well.  There are also many articles that I’ve added to that page for you to browse through. 

Depression is the leading cause of suicide worldwide.  

Look at this list of names. I’m sure you’ll recognize several of them:  Kurt Cobain-Musician, Ernest Hemingway-Writer, Margaux Hemingway-Ernest’s granddaughter, Margot Kidder-Actress (played Lois Lane in the 1978 Superman movie), Edward Platt-Actor, Freddie Prinz-Actor, George Reeves-Actor (played Superman in the 1950’s), Kerry Vo Erich-Writer, Robin Williams-Actor, Mark Salling-Actor (played on the TV show Glee), Virginia Woolf-Writer, Sylvia Plath-Writer, Vincent Van Gogh-Artist. What do these names all have in common?  We lost each of these people to suicide.

I could have listed thousands and thousands of “famous” people, but I don’t have the time or the room for such an exhaustive list! I think I’ve made my point. 

If you have any information that you feel would be of benefit to be added to my Mental Health Help Page, or if you just need someone’s ear to bend, please, reach out to me using my Contact Page HERE.  

Please, let’s do what we can to END the stigma of Mental Illness and open our hearts to those that need the support of each of us.  We’re all in this together.  No one gets out alive.  

Thank you for joining me on this journey.  Penny ❤ 

Image by Gordon Johnson from Pixabay 

 

Posted in depression, Life, mental illness

National Suicide Prevention Week-Sept. 5-11

Posted on by Penny Wilson Writes

I am thrilled when I find such a wonderful resource as the website of The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.  If you may be struggling with suicidal thoughts or if you know someone that may need help.  HERE is where you can find this site.  

This website offers ideas on Self Care, Actions you can take to Prevent Suicide, and Having that conversation with someone.  There is also information on what to do if your family Won’t talk about suicide and there are support groups that you can join if you are dealing with the aftermath of someone that has committed suicide. 

Below are excerpts taken directly from AFSP’s website.  

Did you know that @afspnational is the largest private funder of suicide prevention research? Much of what is known about suicide comes from studies that we fund. Learn more about #Science2StopSuicide at https://afsp.org/research. 

Contrary to popular belief, asking someone directly if they’re thinking about suicide won’t “put the idea in their head.” In fact, people are often relieved to have a #RealConvo about mental health. #Science2StopSuicide

No one takes their life for a single reason. It’s important to know that generally, when someone dies by suicide, it can be attributed to a combination of various risk factors. Learn about the risk factors and warning signs at https://afsp.org/signs. #Science2StopSuicide

You are not alone. If you’re struggling, reach out to @800273TALK, text TALK to 741741 at the @crisistextline, or get involved with your local AFSP chapter.

Not sure how to start a #RealConvo about mental health? Check out @afspnational’s #RealConvo Guides at https://afsp.org/realconvo!

If someone you care about doesn’t seem like themselves lately, check in and let them know you’ll be there to support them every step of the way. Want more guidance on how to have an open, honest conversation about the tough stuff? Check out https://afsp.org/realconvo! #RealConvo

There IS help out there if you need it.  If you are looking for more resources, please visit my Mental Health Help Page HERE.  

Thank you for joining me on this journey.  Penny ❤ 

Posted in depression

Depression-You’re Not Alone

Posted on by Penny Wilson Writes

Depression can make you feel very alone. While we know there are other people out there that suffer from depression, that doesn’t make it any easier. We isolate ourselves, deny that there is anything wrong, and generally cannot see a way out of it. Too often, individuals that suffer from depression do not seek the help they need. While the reasons vary, one of the main reasons for not seeking help is the Stigma associated with Depression.

People feel guilty. They’ve been told to “snap out of it”, or “get over it”, or any number of other things that dismiss what they are going thru. Those people have no idea how dangerous and debilitating depression can be.

If you suffer from depression, please know that you are Not Alone. In fact, you are in good company. After doing a little research, I found an abundance of names that most of us will recognize that suffer from depression. Here’s a partial list:

Demi Lovato, Jim Carrey, Angelina Jolie, Chrissy Teigan, Kristen Bell, Ellen DeGeneres, Prince Harry, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Lady Gaga, Jon Hamm, Bruce Springsteen, Wayne Brady, Serena Williams, Gina Rodriguez and Katy Perry.

I’m sure you will recognize at least a few names on this list. These are people that admit publicly that they do suffer from Depression. While these “beautiful people” may seem like they have the perfect life, the reality is that they are just like us. They have the same struggles and insecurities that we do.

My first advice, always, if you think you might need help getting through your depression, is to reach out to someone. Anyone. Let someone know how you feel. There is help. You don’t have to do this alone. You’re NOT alone in your struggle.

THIS is a page with a lot of different resources, different ways that you can find help. You may find something on this page that is helpful.

Copyright (C) 2020 Penny Wilson

*With the upcoming Suicide Prevention Day, I feel it is important to repeat some of my older posts on Mental Health Awareness.  Thank you for joining me on this journey. Penny ❤

Posted in depression

Depression and Denial

Posted on by Penny Wilson Writes

It’s like it’s a scar that must be hidden. Like some dirty secret.  An ugly sweater you keep in the back of the closet and only bring it out when that aunt comes to visit.  You hide it.  You deny it, even to yourself.

There are the days when you tell yourself “I’m ok”, as you look in the mirror.  You do what you have to do to to get through the next moment, the next hour, the next day.

But you’re not ok and you know it.  Your sleeping too much.  You’re avoiding any social interaction, isolating yourself.  Things that normally bring you joy, no longer do.  There is this dark cloud over everything in your life.

Why do people that are depressed deny it?  The answer is complicated.  Often, the person going through the depression is embarrassed.  They want to appear “normal”.  They don’t want people to think there is something wrong with them.  There is such a stigma attached to depression and other forms of mental illness that the person hides it from those around them and even from themselves.

Sometimes, they don’t know that they’re depressed.  They know something’s not right, but they don’t recognize it.  Depression is a sneaky thief.  It sneaks in under the radar and robs you of the joy in your life.

What can you do if you see that a loved one is depressed but they deny it?  Be there for them.  Listen, talk, check-in with them.  Take that extra minute, make that phone call, or send that text.  Get them out of their isolation.  Take them to lunch, pop in for a quick visit.

Since a depressed person will often isolate themselves, it is incredibly important to BE THERE, not just physically, but emotionally.  Be supportive, encouraging and most of all, be caring.  They won’t want your attention, at least not outwardly.  They will push you away and try to discourage you, telling you that they are fine that nothing is wrong.

Encourage that loved one to seek help.  If you are sure that they need help, don’t give up.  Don’t turn your back on them.  BE THERE for them.  You might just save a life.

The Suicide Prevention Hotline, available 24/7 is 1-800-273-8255

A terrific website on this can be found HERE.

There is a site specifically to help our veterans.  Find that site HERE.

Is talking to someone too much for you?  It was for me at times.  There is a Crisis Text Line.  Text 741741 and you can text with a counselor.

Want to do an online chat?  There’s a site for that too.  Find it HERE.

You can even TWEET with a crisis counselor at @800273TALK on Twitter.

HERE is a link to many international phone #’s for Suicide Prevention.

This is a British number to help Children in crisis.  08001111

Copyright (C) 2019 Penny Wilson

I know this is a repeat. But some things are important to repeat.  This subject is one of those. Thank you for joining me on this journey. ❤ Penny