The National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) tells us that 64 % of people struggling with mental illness feel their conditions worsen during the holidays.
So the Illinois chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is providing resources for the holiday season to cope, including a Talk Saves Lives, via Zoom, on Thursday.
“Talk Saves Lives events provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to recognize and address the warning signs of suicide,” Angela Cummings, executive director of AFSP-Illinois, said. “These event are powerful tools for breaking down stigma and encouraging open conversations about mental health.”
The Dec. 14 event will be from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. and can be accessed by going to tsl-dec-2023.attendease.com/
Those who register will see a 45-50 minute education program that provides a clear understanding of suicide, and covers the latest data on suicide, an understanding of protective factors to lower suicide risk factor, and guidance on the warning signs of suicide.
Illinois AFSP recommends a variety of different ways that can bring comfort to those suffering the holiday blues, including, but not limited to making connections with others who might be lonely, maintaining healthy sleep habits, getting outside during daylight hours, taking breaks from daily tasks, setting personal boundaries, and giving yourself permission to not do something on your to-do list.
AFSP urges taking action to those close to someone at risk of suicide to call or text 988 for the Suicide Crisis Lifeline; or go to suicidepreventionlifeline.org.