Suicide Prevention and Mental Health
Are You Struggling With Your Mental Health?
Suicide Prevention Lifeline
The Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a phone number that you can call at any time if you are struggling with mental health or suicidal thoughts. The number is 1-800-273-TALK (8255). This number is completely confidential and can help you through whatever you are going through. If you would prefer not to talk over the phone, there is also a chat service available where you can talk to a counselor. These services are available 24/7 and are completely free.
Talk to Your Counselor
Lincoln's school counselors are ready and willing to help you with a wide variety of things, including issues of mental health! The Google Doc below includes contact information for every LHS counselor.
Go Online
Many young people are online constantly, and that doesn't have to be a bad thing! There is a functionally infinite amount of content online about mental health. Whether you're struggling and you want some words of encouragement, or you want to learn more about the topic of mental health, you will find countless videos and articles that appeal to you on the internet. Googling the term "mental health" yields well over a billion results with safesearch on, so if you think you could benefit from online resources, know that there is no shortage of options.
What Can I Do To Help My Friends?
A lot of this information in this section came from the National Association of School Psychologists. Their website has many extremely valuable mental health resources.
Know What to Say
You know your friend. Be kind to yourself, and trust your instincts. With that being said, below are some ideas from the National Association of School Psychologists for things you can say to a friend in need.
"Help is available."
"Treatment works."
"Don't keep it to yourself. Tell a trusted adult."
"Everyone's life matters."
Stay and Act
Take any threats of suicide seriously. Don't leave someone in a crisis alone, you may be their lifeline. Get the appropriate help immediately, whether that be calling a crisis hotline or calling their parents.
Talk to An Adult
If you're concerned for your friend, start talking to a school counselor, teacher, or parent, especially in the event of an emergency.
Know Risk Factors and Warning Signs
Risk Factors
Feelings of helplessness or depression
Deliberate self-injury
Prior suicidal thoughts and behavior
Having family members or friends who died by or attempted suicide
Loss of a valued relationship
Feeling isolated or alone
History of trauma or abuse
Substance abuse
Warning Signs
Direct or indirect threats of suicide
Making final plans or giving away favorite possessions
Having a suicide plan or writing suicide notes
Preoccupation with death or revenge
Changes in behavior, sleeping, appetite, or appearence
Sudden unexplained mood swings, rage, or withdrawl
Sudden unexplained unhappiness