[…] that’s no exaggeration. Maybe you’ve accumulated a list of experiences that don’t exactly enhance your resume—frequent absences, medication trials, psychiatrist visits (outpatient or in), special schools, therapists, suicide attempts and drinking sprees. But you’ve gotten good enough grades, and you’re off to college away from home. Maybe you’re hoping the geographic and lifestyle change […]
[…] “alcoholic” or “drug addict.” Describing people with mental illness as helpless with little chance of recovery. Using derogatory language: “crazy,” “insane,” “mental,” “crazed,” “deranged,” “nut.” Implying that suicide is caused by a single event—such as having a relationship problem or losing a job—not by mental illness. Portraying violence as the norm for people with […]
[…] in through the employee’s entrance, all stressed out,” Joe explained. “The people working there were like, ‘Hello? How are you?’ And somehow or another the word ‘ suicide’ came out. The next thing I knew, I was laying down, strapped in.” It was during this first admittance of many that Joe was diagnosed with […]
[…] how to cope. When we feel utterly alone and out-of-control, we’re capable of doing almost anything to stop the emotional pain including, cutting, purging and even attempting suicide. “I just want the pain to stop” is what I often hear. Stopping Intense Emotional Pain When we met, Renee told me that part of her […]
[…] When we met, everything that had been going on in my mind poured out. I told my professor that my friend wanted to die and had attempted suicide over the weekend. I felt powerless and out of control. I couldn’t think straight. Then, my professor told me something that had honestly not occurred to […]
[…] society, we should be encouraging young people to be open about their mental health rather than allowing them to struggle in silence. Especially considering what’s at stake: Suicide is the second leading cause of death for ages 15-34. In other words, fighting stigma matters. NAMI is committed to fighting stigma so the next generation […]
[…] step? Understanding your child’s diagnosis is critical. This knowledge can help you find ways to cope. For example, my son went through psychological testing after his first suicide attempt. His symptoms had impaired his thinking so much that he lost three grade levels of reading comprehension. That was crushing to hear, since we had […]
[…] else says. With that said, keep in mind: If you feel triggered by something you see online, text 741741 to the crisis text line or call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-9255. If social media is negatively impacting your symptoms, take some time away from it or consult your mental health professional about how […]
[…] anxious and depressed. I don’t have to pretend anymore.” A 2015 study by American University said that Millennials grew up hearing about anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and suicide, and they are more accepting of others with mental illness. Millennials are more likely to talk about mental health than their parents or grandparents. As more […]
[…] Pooh for a day. Amy Willer is an advocate, writer, volunteer, friend and community member with bipolar I with psychotic feature and PTSD. She has survived suicide attempts twice and has overcome addictions to self-injury and anorexia. She lives in southern Arizona, and loves hiking and spending time with her friends. Note: This […]
NAMI HelpLine is available M-F, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. ET. Call 800-950-6264,
text “helpline” to 62640, or chat online. In a crisis, call or text 988 (24/7).
