World Mental Health Day 2019

According to the 2017 National Survey of Drug Use and Mental Health, approximately 0.6% of adults 18 or older have attempted suicide at least once. That’s approximately 1.4 million people. If you or someone you know have had suicidal thoughts or attempted suicide, then World Mental Health Day is your day.

If you also suffer from substance abuse, now is the time to take the first step toward wellness with addiction therapy services in Jacksonville, FL. Learn more about what you can do to recognize the importance of mental health and help prevent suicides.

What is World Mental Health Day 2019?

Celebrated on October 10th every year, it’s World Mental Health Day was established to raise awareness for those suffering from mental health issues. This year’s theme is suicide prevention. Each of us can play a part. On September 10th, people around the globe recognized World Suicide Prevention Day, an event recognized for nearly two decades. Do what you can to spread the word about this serious problem throughout the coming year.

Did you know that every 40 seconds someone takes their own life?

If you missed out on the events this year, you can celebrate anytime. The celebration is for everyone who survived a suicide attempt or received help. Print the flyers available online and display them in the workplace to let others know what the day is about.

Encourage coworkers, friends, and family that missed the event to take “40 seconds of action.” The flyer lists ways to participate, including:

• Raise awareness of suicide as a global public health problem
• Improve knowledge of prevention options
• Reduce the stigma of suicide and suicidal ideations
• Spread the word to people experiencing suicidal thoughts— they are not alone!

Use this opportunity to show that you are there. Everyone must choose their way to participate. Maybe you can have a conversation that gives strength and hope to someone who’s struggling or post a video on social media.

What Can You Do All Year Long?

The staggering statistics bear witness to the need for awareness on World Mental Health Day and beyond. On average, 129 die of suicide every day. In 2017, firearms accounted for half (50.57%) of successful suicides. The second highest cause of suicidal death was suffocation, at 27.72%, followed by poisoning at 13.89%.

If you recognize signs that someone is struggling, reach out to them or contact the appropriate authorities.

The five most common signs that someone may commit suicide include:

• Extreme depression
• Self-harm
• Social withdrawal
• Uncharacteristic mood swings
• Tying up loose ends

Suicide and Addiction

Psychology Today suggests that those with a substance abuse disorder are about six times more likely to try to take their own life. Substance abuse may temporarily numb the emotional pain, but overtime substance abuse makes it worse. Further, self-medicating by using drugs leaves the real issue untreated. To some people, help may feel out of reach. Let them know about places, such as Beaches Recovery that can help.

Co-occurring disorders that complicate the treatment of suicidal ideation include:

• Depression
• Post traumatic stress disorder
• General anxiety disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Bipolar disorder

It’s important to seek a dual diagnosis treatment center in Florida for the underlying cause of suicidal thoughts to prevent a recurrence or an attempt at suicide in the future.

Beaches Recovery Substance Abuse Treatment

At Beaches Recovery in Jacksonville, Florida, we recognize the significance of World Mental Health Day. Our Jacksonville addiction treatment programs are tailored to recognize co-occurring disorders and treat the root causes.

You may receive several therapy treatments, such as trauma/PTSD treatment, group therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, anger management, and the 12 step recovery approach. Every care plan varies and is designed to improve your chances for lifelong recovery. Contact us at 866.605.0532 for more information or to begin your journey to hope and a realization of how precious life is.