Having A Sound Mind

September was National Suicide Prevention Month. I want to continue the awareness this month as well. 

According to the National Institute of Mental Health in 2018, suicide is considered the 2nd leading cause of death among individuals ages 10-34, and the 4th leading cause of death among people between the ages of 35 and 54 in the United States.  The thought of this is mind boggling and astounding given there is help available for anyone who is feeling low, experiencing anguish, despair, and feeling boxed in with no way out of their present situation. I’ve come to share hope and extend a lifeline to you today. No matter what you’re facing there is hope and help available to you.

It is just as important for everyone to be mentally sound as well as physically fit. Mental soundness is when you are feeling good about yourself, using good judgement, working toward your goals, vision and dreams; forgiving others and forgiving yourself of past mistakes and failures. Chronic conditions that affect you mentally should be addressed and treated. First of all recognize and accept the help from others who care about you and want to see you reach your potential and purpose in life. This sets you in a place where you can receive the appropriate and timely help that is needed.   

It’s good to take pleasure in the things that bring you joy and fulfillment. Surround yourself with positive thinking/speaking people, read, paint, engage in physical activities, renew your mind with things that increase your self-esteem, and keep your stress level at a minimum or no stress if at all possible.  

Reach out to a friend, family member, your primary care provider, counselor, psychologist, psychiatrist, mental health consultant, spiritual support person or call the national suicide prevention hotline if you are experiencing suicidal ideations (thinking about, considering or planning to harm yourself). There are various degrees of depression and it has to be dealt with on every level. Seek help, don’t wait. Take heart and be encouraged knowing that someone is always looking out for you. You are victorious and more than a conqueror through Jesus Christ.

I want to encourage those who are in a position to bring awareness of suicide prevention, whether it is in person, educationally or through social media. Wear a yellow ribbon as a conversation starter to inform others about September being the National Suicide Prevention Month. Keep wearing it throughout to let everyone know you are concerned about mental health.

   National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-TALK (8255)