Recognizing the Signs
Suicide is a complex and sensitive issue that often catches us off guard. However, there are signs we can learn to recognize. One common indication is when someone becomes withdrawn or starts expressing feelings of depression, sadness, or hopelessness. It’s crucial to genuinely ask people how they’re feeling and listen to their responses. Sometimes, their body language might reveal more than their words.
Depression isn’t always evident during the day. Some individuals can function normally in public but struggle in private. Signs of depression can manifest as changes in sleep patterns, excessive tiredness despite a healthy lifestyle, lack of interest in activities that were once enjoyable, overwhelming guilt, low energy levels, concentration problems, and changes in appetite.
These symptoms can be particularly concerning in teenagers and young adults, as suicide is occurring at younger ages due to factors like bullying. Parents, guardians, and friends should engage in open conversations with young people, genuinely inquire about their day, and look for any unusual behaviors or signs of distress.
Seeking Help
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger of self-harm, it’s crucial to act swiftly. Get them to the emergency room or call 911. In situations where you’re alone and experiencing suicidal thoughts, you can reach out to the 988 hotline, a dedicated resource for individuals struggling with suicidal feelings
Breaking Stigmas
In many societies, mental health issues, including depression and suicidal thoughts, are stigmatized. People often believe that faith alone can solve all problems, but the truth is that therapy and faith can coexist and complement each other. Let’s remember that it’s okay to seek help and support when we’re going through tough times.
Dr. Kre Johnson is a Board Certified Family Medicine Physician and the sole owner of Brownstone Healthcare and Aesthetics. She is the Medical Director of the City of Birmingham’s Employee Health Clinic-Brownstone BWell Birmingham. She is the Event Producer of Wifeology and the founder of Three Twenty Girls, Inc. She loves God, traveling, and all things Southern!!
Brownstone BWell: Brownstone Healthcare has partnered with the City of Birmingham to offer primary care services to the employees of the City of Birmingham for $0 copayment. This partnership is for preventative services & screenings and sick visits. We partner with your current primary care physician and our goal is to keep you out of the ER and urgent care. We do not share your information with the City of Birmingham. We uphold HIPPA and professional standards. You can visit us at our downtown location 1700 5th Ave N Birmingham, AL 35203 or Trussville: 4643 Camp Coleman Road #117 Trussville, AL 35173 205-202-5650 call for your appointment today.
