#suicideawarenessmonth #suicideawareness #familysupport #breakthesilence #endthestigma #starttheconversation
September is Suicide Awareness Month, a time to shed light on a critical issue that affects countless individuals and families worldwide. We recognize the importance family connections can have in preventing youth suicide. We'll also explore some research findings that highlight the significance of these bonds in promoting mental health and resilience among young people.
Youth suicide is a pressing global concern that demands our attention. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), suicide is the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 15 to 29 (!) The statistics are alarming, but it's essential to remember that behind these numbers are real people. The stats represent persons who were sons, daughters, siblings, parents, aunts, uncles, and valuable human beings. Unfortunately, everyone has been impacted by suicide and its ripple effects on well-being.
The Role of Connections
Family is often considered the cornerstone of emotional support and stability in a person's life. Strong family connections can be a powerful protective factor against youth suicide. Here's how:
Emotional Support: Families can provide a safe space for young people to express their emotions and feelings without judgment. When teenagers, adolescents, and children have a strong support system at home, they are more likely to seek help when facing difficulties.
Communication: Open and honest communication within families can create an environment where young people feel comfortable discussing their problems and concerns. This can prevent issues from escalating and lead to early intervention when needed.
Resilience: Strong relationships with attachment and connection foster resilience in young individuals. Resilience helps them bounce back from life's challenges, making them less susceptible to the risk factors associated with suicide.
Early Intervention: Family members are often the first to notice changes in behavior or mood that may indicate a mental health issue. Their vigilance can lead to early intervention and appropriate response.
Numerous studies have examined the link between family connections and youth mental health. Here are some key findings:
Protective Factor: Research has consistently shown that strong family relationships act as a protective factor against suicidal ideation and attempts among adolescents.
Parental Involvement: A study published in the Journal of Abnormal Child Psychology found that parental involvement and emotional support were associated with lower rates of depressive symptoms in adolescents.
Family Dinners: Surprisingly, the simple act of having regular family dinners has been linked to a reduced risk of substance abuse, depression, and suicidal thoughts among teenagers.
Parent-Child Connectedness: A study in JAMA Pediatrics revealed that parent-child connectedness was associated with lower odds of suicidal ideation and attempts among high school students.
Suicide Awareness Month provides an opportunity for individuals, families, and communities to take action. Together we can START doing, and END the stigma:
Open Conversations: Start conversations about mental health and suicide within your family, friends, and community groups. It is most important to create a non-judgmental space for discussions, regardless of differences.
Educate Yourself: Learn about the signs of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation in youth. Knowledge is a powerful tool for early intervention.
Support Resources: Familiarize yourself with local and national mental health resources and crisis helplines that you can turn to if someone you know is in crisis. Crisis Line Call or Text # 988
Advocate: Advocate for improved mental health services and support in your community, especially for young people.
Back to Play continues to push forward on our goal of creating an office for counseling, youth support services, and family outreach. With your help, we can truly make an impact on our youth. This is a crucial part of closing the gap between children and adults and facilitating those lifelong connections.
During Suicide Awareness Month, let us remember those that are currently suffering, those who have suffered, and those we have lost.
By fostering open communication, emotional support, and resilience within our families, we can contribute to the well-being of our youth. Together, we can make a difference and help create a world where every young person feels valued and supported in their journey toward mental health.