Suicide & COVID19
Public health events, can cause severe emotional distress. Feeling anxious, depressed, confused, overwhelmed or powerless is common during an infectious disease outbreak and is further exacerbated by uncertainty, financial crisis, and social distancing. These feelings can impact or even distort our judgment, perspective and problem-solving ability, but suicide should never be the answer.
Thoughts of Hopelessness and suicide are real and need to be taken seriously. At this time, there is a perfect storm, especially to high risk people; seniors, drugs/alcohol (addicts), mental health problems, physical health problems, or previous attempts... Please see exacerbating factors, signs, action steps, and resources below;
Exacerbating factors related to Covid-19
Loss of status, role, or job
Loss of control
Major lifestyle change or disappointment related to family, work, school
Health concerns
Isolation
Media consumption
Signs – listen to what they say and observe how they say it...
Extreme under-reaction or over-reactions
Uncharacteristic affect, moods, or emotional state, unusual calmness, overly emotional, or indifferent
Direct statements or an expressed plan such as; “I can take it anymore”, “I’d be better off dead”, “It’s just not worth living”, etc.
Actions and behaviors including; giving things away, increased drug or alcohol use, shutting down or withdrawing, severe recklessness, aggressiveness, or impulsivity
These factors and signs are increased when combined by the following conditions;
Drunk or high
Access to guns
Access to pills or meds
Action Steps
You are not an alarmist if you are concerned about a friend, neighbor or loved one. And, asking them about their intentions will not put the idea in their head or make it worse. Practice the words, “Are you thinking about suicide or killing yourself?”
Be calm, listen, acknowledge, don’t judge
You can’t solve their problems or change their mind - don’t try
Don’t make promises, bargain, or negotiate
Team up with family or friend, don’t leave them alone
call a professional to get help immediately or call for them if you have to…
Do Not Pass Go!
Emergency Resources
National Hopeline Network (800) SUICIDE
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800) 273-TALK (8255)
Hillsborough / Pinellas 211
911 from all areas
Online
Give us a call at 813-434-3639 to schedule an appointment with Chris Long.
