Supporting Mental Health During National Suicide Prevention Month

September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and the resources available to individuals in need. At Fort HealthCare, we are committed to providing comprehensive behavioral health resources that support individuals in our community. Understanding the signs of mental health struggles and knowing where to find help can make a profound difference in someone’s life.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Identifying the warning signs of mental health issues is key to early intervention. Common signs include noticeable changes in mood or behavior, problems in relationships with friends or family members, difficulties at work or school, sleep disturbances, changes in appetite, trouble coping, and substance abuse. These are only a few indicators that show why getting help should never be ignored. If you notice these signs in someone, it’s important to approach them with compassion and offer your support. By recognizing these warning signs, early intervention can provide the necessary support and treatment to address these challenges.

Encouraging Open Conversations

Open, honest conversations about mental health can reduce the stigma that often prevents individuals from seeking help. If you’re concerned about someone’s well-being, approach the conversation by expressing your concerns in a compassionate, non-judgmental manner. Listen to their feelings, affirm that seeking help is a sign of strength, and reassure them that they don’t have to face their challenges alone. Creating a safe environment for these discussions can impact their willingness to seek the support they need.

Connecting with Behavioral Health Resources

Knowing where to turn for help and accessing the right support for mental health challenges is crucial. At Fort HealthCare, our Behavioral Health Services integrate care through our Integrated Behavioral Health Providers (IBHPs) and your Primary Care Provider (PCP) to address all aspects of your health—physical, behavioral, social, and emotional. Our IBHPs help create personalized treatment plans for mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and substance use, and support the development of skills to manage emotional and behavioral difficulties. For more extensive needs, our Behavioral Health Clinic provides comprehensive care with evidence-based practices and board-certified psychiatrists.

To schedule a convenient video visit or learn more about our services, please call (920) 563-9542. For school-based mental health services, contact your school’s administration or pupil service team. You can also call Fort HealthCare’s Behavioral Health office at (920) 563-9542 for additional information.

Getting Involved in Suicide Prevention

Everyone has a role to play in suicide prevention. It’s important to know that people of different ages will show different symptoms and behaviors. Getting familiar with the common behaviors of children, teens, and adults that make it hard for them to adapt to situations will often help to identify any problems early when they can be treated. It’s important for families who suspect a problem in one or more of these areas to seek treatment as soon as possible. Support and treatment for mental health disorders is available.

This September, take the opportunity to educate yourself on the available resources and consider how you can contribute to this important cause. Together, we can make a difference and foster a more supportive, mentally healthy community.