Mikensie Oakeson, LIMHP LADC, Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner, Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor, The Lanning Center
Suicide is a profound issue that affects many individuals and families. However, mental health crises are highly treatable and more extreme measures, which include suicide, can be diverted. Most individuals seeking help for a mental health crisis can be treated effectively with therapy and medications. It’s crucial to understand that there is hope, support and a path toward recovery for those struggling.
Mental health crises and suicide are current issues in Nebraska. In 2021, 33.8% of adults reported having some level of anxiety or depression symptoms and 21.5% were unable to attain help, including therapy or other services. Also, 62,000 adults were diagnosed with a serious mental illness, and one in six youths each year are diagnosed with a mental health disorder. There is an average of 271 completed suicides a year in Nebraska. (Ilness, 2021). There are several factors that contribute to someone being in a mental health crisis. These can include homelessness, lack of financial means or assistance or a general lack of resources. There were 2,404 people in Nebraska in 2021 who were homeless (Ilness, 2021). There are many things that can lead to suicidal thoughts, such as mental health disorders, trauma and life stressors.
It is important to have a support system, whether it be friends, family or mental health professionals. There are quite a few technological resources and guidelines that can be easily accessed to meet basic mental health needs. 988 has been set up to text or call, which will put an individual in contact with the suicide and crisis hotline. Calling 911 in emergency situations is always a valuable resource, especially in the event of a suicide attempt. Websites such as FindSupport.gov have also been set up to aid in finding available resources for mental health care. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has a hotline that can be accessed at 800-662-HELP (4357) (SAMHSA, 2024). Also, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or chat at www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
If you would like to stay more local, Mary Lanning Healthcare has a 24/7 crisis line with live therapists which can be reached at 402-463-7711. During the day, the number is the behavioral health clinic (The Lanning Center for Behavioral Services) and at night it is an answering service. You can also always walk into your closest ER.
We have all most likely been affected in some way by suicide. There are several signs you can look for when caring about someone in a mental health crisis. Often, people in crisis will express feelings like being a burden or will isolate themselves from others. Someone in a mental health crisis might also have increased and excessive worry or anxiety, feel trapped or be in unbearable mental or physical pain. Other symptoms that might be expressed are increased anger or rage, extreme mood swings, expression of hopelessness and sleeping too little or too much. More obvious signs may include talking about or posting about suicide, wanting to die or making plans for suicide. (CDC, 2018) People may often give away possessions, say goodbye to family and friends, try to put affairs in order or take risks that could lead to death. (Health, 2024) “Even though self-injury may be an attempt to manage emotional pain, it often creates its own chaos, shame and relational conflict. The compulsion to use self-harming behaviors, such as cutting, picking or burning, is often confusing to those who engage in the behavior and those who love them.” (Alternatives, 2024)
“Suicide is not a normal response to stress. Suicidal thoughts or actions are a sign of extreme distress and should not be ignored.” (Health, 2024) When you or someone you know is talking about or thinking about suicide, there are several different actions that can be taken. Steps include the following:
- Ask - “Are you having thoughts of wanting to kill yourself?”
- Keep them safe - Reduce access to lethal means.
- Be there - Listen carefully and acknowledge their feelings.
- Help them connect - Call or text the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline or call Mary Lanning Healthcare crisis line (402-463-7711).
- Stay connected - Follow up and stay in touch after a crisis. (Health, 2024)
Suicide may feel like a solution for many, but it’s crucial to remember that there is always hope and help available. By reaching out, seeking support and fostering connections, individuals can find their way back to a brighter future.
It is always better to be safe than sorry, so when in doubt, reach out. If you or someone you know is struggling, please contact a trusted friend, family member or mental health professional. Remember, you are not alone, and there is always hope.
References
Alternatives, S. (2024). S.A.F.E Alternatives. Retrieved from Ending Self-injury: www.selfinjury.com
CDC. (2018, June). CDC Vital Signs: Suicide rising across the US. Retrieved from Center for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov/vitalsigns
Health, N. I. (2024). Suicide Prevention. Retrieved from The National Institute of Mental Health: www.nimh.nih.gov
Ilness, N. A. (2021, February). Mental Health in Nebraska. Retrieved from National Institute of Mental Health: www.nami.org
SAMHSA. (2024). Suicide and Suicidal Behavior. Retrieved from Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: www.samhsa.gov
