Depression, anxiety and suicide at an all time high in 2020?
Updated: Apr 30, 2020
What I want the world to know is that we must TALK about these issues as a society.
Depression and anxiety are at an all time high right now around the world due to COVID-19. Whether you are an essential worker in healthcare or at home by yourself with no job, this situation is difficult to say the least.
The prediction is that the suicide statistics are going to spike much like they did after the great depression. The numbers have already grown 40% in the last 20 years. As an example there were 38,000 suicides in the USA in 2017 and in 2019 the number was 50,000. There is also research that shows for every person who dies by suicide, twenty others make an attempt.
If you are a loved one is struggling or in danger, please reach out for help.
Suicide Prevention Lifeline 800-273-8255
Colorado Crisis Hotline 844-493-8255 or text TALK to 38255
WHAT CAN WE DO?
I will repeat, WE MUST TALK about these issues with our family, friends, loved ones, spouses, kids, and ask for help. WE MUST REALLY LISTEN WITHOUT JUDGEMENT when our loved ones ask for help.
This is serious...
For the people I have talked to who think they are ready to die, and their spouse/family/parents are in the next room and have no idea. Some of them are so scared to talk to their loved ones because they do not think they will be heard or understood.
This is serious...
For the people who have lost a loved one to this tragic death. The stories are endless of loss, guilt, regret, misunderstanding, trauma and wishing for just 1 minute they could talk to or hug that person again.
As an attempt survivor myself, I know how hard it is to talk to anyone or ask for help. We have got to get rid of the stigma that feeds this issue. And the way to do that is to have the conversation.
I wanted to share this article with you that came out yesterday. I am excited about this because it is the first media attention to help us get the word out about our mission.
Our mission to create awareness around depression, anxiety, suicide ideation and help reduce the number of humans who struggle with these issues.
Mental Health TIPS...
Keep a consistent schedule as much as possible.
Maintain a healthy diet.
Daily exercise, even just a walk around the block. Breath some fresh air.
Stay connected with friends and/or family.
Do one thing everyday that makes you happy.
Limit alcohol and avoid drugs.
Watch the news 1 hour a day or less.
Don't be afraid to seek help.
Read some positive quotes.
Write down 3 things each day that you are thankful for.