As September unfolds, it brings with it two critical reminders: Self-Care Awareness Month and Suicide Prevention Month. These observances serve as powerful prompts for us to pause and reflect on how we care for ourselves and those around us, especially when it comes to mental health. In our roles as professionals, colleagues, and community members, we have a unique responsibility to be vigilant, supportive, and proactive in addressing mental health concerns. In particular, the signs of depression and suicidal ideation.
The Importance of Self-Care
Self-care is not just about pampering oneself; it’s about maintaining our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. It involves practices that help us manage stress, prevent burnout, and ensure we are at our best to support others. For professionals, particularly those in high-stress environments, regular self-care is essential. It can be as simple as taking a few minutes each day to breathe deeply, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in a hobby that brings joy.
But self-care goes beyond personal rituals; it also entails designing spaces that promote wellbeing. Workplaces ought to promote a culture where asking for assistance is accepted and encouraged, as well as offer resources for mental health.
Suicide Prevention: A Collective Responsibility
While self-care is about maintaining our own well-being, suicide prevention is about extending our care to those around us. Suicide is a tragic and complex issue that often stems from untreated or inadequately addressed mental health conditions, particularly depression. As professionals, we must be equipped to recognize the signs of someone in distress and take appropriate action.
“ When you feel like giving up, just remember why you held on for so long.”
Haley Williams
Signs of Depression and Suicidal Ideation:
- Withdrawal: A person may isolate themselves from social interactions, family, and friends.
- Mood Changes: Noticeable shifts in mood, such as persistent sadness, irritability, or anger.
- Loss of Interest: A lack of interest in activities that were once enjoyable, including work, hobbies, or socializing.
- Expressing Hopelessness: Statements like “There’s no way out,” “I can’t go on,” or “Nothing will ever change” can be red flags.
- Changes in Sleep Patterns: Insomnia or sleeping too much.
- Appetite Changes: Significant weight loss or gain, or disinterest in food.
- Increased Risky Behaviors: Engaging in reckless activities or substance abuse.
- Giving Away Possessions: This can sometimes be a subtle sign of preparing for suicide.
- Talking About Death or Suicide: Direct or indirect references to death or suicide should always be taken seriously.
“When you don’t have the strength to take another step, ask those you love to pull you.”
Unknown
When to Get Help
If you notice these signs in a colleague, friend, or even a young person, it’s crucial to take action. Here’s what you can do:
- Start a Conversation: Approach the person with compassion and without judgment. Use open-ended questions to allow them to express themselves.
- Listen Actively: Sometimes, just being there to listen can provide immense relief to someone struggling.
- Encourage Professional Help: Suggest that they speak to a mental health professional, and offer to help them find resources if needed.
- Stay Connected: Continue to check in on them regularly. Your ongoing support can make a big difference.
- Seek Emergency Help: If you believe someone is in immediate danger, don’t hesitate to contact emergency services or a suicide prevention hotline.
A Call to Action: Supporting Our Teens
Recently, I had the opportunity to speak to a group of teens at church during the culmination of their Mental Health Month. I was struck by the depth and seriousness of the questions they asked— many of which were about dealing with suicidal ideation. This is a term I learned in psychology school, yet our teens are already grappling with it. Their awareness and willingness to seek help is both encouraging and heartbreaking.
The fact that our young people are familiar with these concepts highlights the need for us to be more proactive in offering support. We must create safe spaces where they can talk about their feelings without fear of judgment. As adults, we have to be approachable and informed, ready to provide guidance or connect them with professional help when needed.
“There are far, far better things ahead than anything we leave behind.”
CS Lewis
Conclusion
As we observe Self-Care Awareness Month and Suicide Prevention Month this September, let’s commit to looking after ourselves and each other. Whether it’s a colleague in distress or a teen navigating the challenges of adolescence, our vigilance and support can be life-changing.
Let’s be the ones who notice, who care, and who act. Together, we can make a difference—one conversation, one act of kindness, one supportive gesture at a time.
Resources
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Local mental health professionals and counseling services
Resources in Kenya:
- Befrienders Kenya
- Hotline: +254 722 178 177 or +254 733 656 065
- Website: www.befrienderskenya.org
- Provides emotional support to prevent suicide.
- Kenya Red Cross Society – Psychological Support
- Hotline: 1199 (24/7 Toll-Free)
- Offers psychological support and counseling services across Kenya.
- Chiromo Lane Medical Centre (CLMC)
- Contact: +254 719 802 965 / +254 738 504 112
- Website: www.clmc.co.ke
- A mental health facility offering comprehensive psychiatric and psychological services.
- Kenyatta National Hospital – Mental Health Department
- Contact: +254 20 272 6300-9
- Location: Nairobi, Kenya
- Provides psychiatric services including counseling and crisis intervention.
- Africa Mental Health Foundation
- Contact: +254 720 290 168
- Website: www.africamentalhealthfoundation.org
- Engages in mental health research and offers support services.
- Youthline Kenya
- Hotline: +254 800 720 028 (24/7 Toll-Free)
- Provides support specifically for young people dealing with mental health issues.
- Amani Counseling Centre & Training Institute
- Contact: +254 20 273 7689 / +254 727 774 109
- Website: www.amanicentre.org
- Offers counseling services, training, and support groups.
- Niskize (Run by Basic Needs Kenya)
- Hotline: 0900 620 800 (Toll-Free)
- Offers support for people dealing with mental health issues, particularly in low-income areas.
- Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital:
- Phone: +254 20 720 6000
- Email: info@matharimh.go.ke
- Location: Thika Road, Nairobi, Kenya
- Mathari Hospital is Kenya’s primary mental health facility, offering a range of psychiatric and psychological services. If you need mental health support, they provide both inpatient and outpatient services.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me or one of these resources. Your mental health matters, and there is help available.
#SelfCareAwarenessMonth #SuicidePreventionMonth #MentalHealthKenya #SupportEachOther #EndTheStigma #TeenMentalHealthKenya
