Four Things To Know

1. Statistics

Widely misunderstood, mental health affects more people than we know. 47,000+ people die by suicide each year in the United States — that breaks down to 1 death every 11 minutes.

Adolescents (aged 12–17):

• 1 in 6 experience a major depressive episode
• 3 million have thoughts of suicide

Young adults (aged 18–25):

• 1 in 3 experience mental illness
• 1 in 10 experience a serious mental illness
• 3.8 million had serious thoughts of suicide

Adults:

• 12 million had serious thoughts of suicide
• 3.5 million made a plan for suicide
• 1.4 million adults attempted suicide

2. Dispelling the Stigma

As defined by Mayo Clinic, “Stigma is when someone views you in a negative way because you have a distinguishing characteristic or personal trait that’s thought to be, or actually is, a disadvantage.” The stigma surrounding mental illness is the product of a lack of understanding and fear, creating untrue stereotypes that those struggling are dangerous, incompetent, unpredictable, or have a weak character. These beliefs lead to prejudice and discrimination.

Dispelling mental health myths:

• The large majority of people with mental illness are no more violent than anyone else. Only 3%–5% of violent acts can be attributed to those with mental illness.
• People with mental health problems are just as productive as other employees or students.
• Mental health problems have nothing to do with character, like being weak or lazy. Contributing factors include biology, life experiences, and family history.

More than half of people with mental illness don’t receive help. A study of 90,000+ people worldwide found that stigma is one of the top reasons.

Reduce the stigma:

• Educate yourself and others
• Talk openly about mental health
• Be conscious of the language you use
• Show compassion
• Normalize getting treatment by being honest about your own journey
• Get involved

3. Warning Signs and Symptoms

Be on the lookout for these warning signs:

• Verbal suicide threats such as, “You’d be better off without me.”
• Expressions of hopelessness and helplessness
• Previous suicide attempts
• Daring or risk-taking behavior
• Increased use of alcohol and/or substances
• Personality changes
• Depression
• Giving away prized possessions
• Changes in school or work performance
• Change of physical appearance
• Change in sleeping pattern — too much or too little sleep
• Lack of interest in future plans

4. Crisis Intervention

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or a crisis, please reach out:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — call or text 988 (or 800-273-TALK / 8255)
• Crisis Text Line — text “TALK” to 741741