Mental health is a major issue, in people aged 15-25 suicide has become the second highest rate of death. Especially with the new show "13 Reasons Why" being released, I thought I would share some techniques for helping someone that suffers from one of these conditions.
1. Say HELLO!
Sometimes people that are depressed or in a bad mental state are lonely and just need to see that people do notice them and care.
2. Make more friends.
No one said that you have to limit yourself to 3-5 friends, you can have as many as you want. Research shows that humans can actually die without social interaction so you are not just doing them a favor you are helping yourself.
3. Pay attention!
Would you notice if your friends stopped coming to class or work?
4. Be aware of the services in your area.
For example, colleges generally have counseling centers and you do not have to have an appointment for emergencies!
5. The national suicide prevention line is 1-800-273-8255.
Memorize the number.
6. Do not compare your situation to theirs!
Your situation may have been bad but what they are going through may be impacting them more emotionally. We cannot always control how we feel about things.
7. Offer to take them to get help.
Sometimes it is comforting to know someone supports you.
8. Do not put pressure on your friends.
They can't "Just snap out of it;" don't try to make them do things they do not want to.
9. Educate yourself.
There are so many types of mental illness from depression, anxiety, bipolar to PTSD and so forth.
