The next step in our campaign consists of a simple way to show those around you that you care. We are going to be there for them during this hard time. By simply being there for them, either physically, through a phone call, text, or a special little written note, etc., you are showing your support to their need. An important aspect of this step is to make sure you follow through with what you said you were going to do. If you support the person, make sure that they know what it is you are doing. It can be easy for them to feel alone, pushed away, vulnerable, or that nobody cares.
Don’t commit if you aren’t 100% sure you can fulfill the duty.
It’s important that you don’t commit to anything you are not willing or able to accomplish. There also may come a time when you aren’t able to be there for somebody that is asking for help. One way you can still be involved is talking with them to develop some ideas for others who might be able to help. This shows them that you can help them in a different way than being physically there.
Make sure you’re still listening.
Although we are talking about how to be there for someone, listening is still just as important as it was when we discussed #BeThe1To Ask previously. Find out what and who they believe will be the most effective sources of help. Then, you can come up with a plan of how to make those sources available to the person without putting a burden on them.
Being there for someone with thoughts of suicide or any kind of need can be life-saving. They desire for a need to feel connected to someone. They may even try to be involved more to make their problems seem less daunting while they get the help they need. By limiting their time spent alone, you have the opportunity to protect them from causing harm to themselves or others.
Check out this story from Savannah Lloyd. She wrote it in hopes that it can help others. In an article titled “To The People I Met on my Mental Health Journey” she writes, “Thank you for passing the tissues when it was all too much and my eyes finally poured the tears I tried so hard to hold back.” We would be naive to think there aren’t people in Wayne County that need some tissues as well. By Being There, we have a chance to alleviate the stress and anxiety that comes with making life altering decisions in significant situations.
Be a part of Family Connection
The Wayne County Family Connection Collaborative would like to invite anyone in our community to be a part of our group. For more information, contact Lana Wright at 912-256-2150. Our meetings are held on the 4th Monday of each month. Browse the rest of our website to learn more & connect with us if you have any questions.
Mental Health Task Force # for Wayne County:
Business Hours 9am-5pm: 912-530-8889
After Hours: 912-256-2150
If you see warning signs of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or 911.
Article Source: bethe1to.com/stories
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