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Community Resources

Mental Health Resources

NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

Call or text 988 to connect with a crisis counselor, or start an online chat at https://988lifeline.org/chat/.

Learn more: https://988lifeline.org/

¡Los servicios de texto y chat de 988 Lifeline ya están disponibles en español!
Haga clic aquí para obtener información sobre cómo acceder a todos los servicios en español.

Conocer más: https://988lifeline.org/es/servicios-en-espanol/

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)

AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health by engaging in the following core strategies:

  • Funding scientific research
  • Educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention
  • Advocating for public policies in mental health and suicide prevention

Learn more: https://afsp.org/

American Association of Suicidology (AAS)

AAS is an inclusive community that envisions a world where people know how to prevent suicide and find hope and healing. Their mission is to promote the understanding and prevention of suicide and support those who have been affected by it.

Learn more: https://www.suicidology.org/

Crisis Text Line

The Crisis Text hotline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week throughout the U.S. The Crisis Text Line serves anyone, in any type of crisis, connecting them with a crisis counselor who can provide support and information.

Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a Crisis Counselor.

Suicide Awareness Voices of Education (SAVE)

SAVE is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization governed by an all-volunteer Board of Directors and operating under the nonprofit laws of the State of Minnesota. SAVE works at the international, national, state and local levels to prevent suicide using a public health model in suicide prevention; concentrating its efforts on education and awareness.

Learn more: https://save.org/who-we-are/

JED Foundation (JED)

The Jed Foundation (JED) empowers teens and young adults with the skills and support to grow into healthy, thriving adults.

Learn more: https://www.jedfoundation.org/

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness.

Learn more: https://nami.org/Home

Mental Health America (MHA)

Mental Health America (MHA) –founded in 1909 –is the nation’s leading community-based nonprofit dedicated to addressing the needs of those living with mental illness and to promoting the overall mental health of all Americans.

Learn more: https://www.mhanational.org/

The Trevor Project

The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people under 25.

Learn more: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/

Yellow Ribbon Suicide Prevention Program

The Yellow Ribbon Suicide Prevention Program is dedicated to preventing suicide and attempts by making suicide prevention accessible to everyone and removing barriers to help by:

  • Empowering individuals and communities through leadership, awareness, education
  • By collaborating and partnering with support networks to reduce stigma and help save lives.

Learn more: https://yellowribbon.org/

Trans Lifeline

Trans Lifeline is an organization run by and for trans people, offering direct emotional and financial support to trans people in crisis. Its mission is to connect trans people to a community of support and resources.

Call: 1-877-565-8860

Learn more: https://translifeline.org/

The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender National Hotline

The LGBT National Hotline is for all ages. They provide a safe, anonymous, confidential space where callers, online chatters, or emailers can speak privately on different issues and concerns including, but not limited to:

  • Coming out issues
  • Gender and/or sexuality identities
  • Relationship concerns
  • Workplace issues and bullying
  • HIV/AIDS anxiety and safer-sex information

Call: 1-888-843-4564

Learn more: https://www.glbthotline.org/

PFLAG

PFLAG is an organization that provides support, information, and resources for LGBTQ people, their parents and families, and allies. They provide multiple different resource hotlines.

PFLAG Hotlines: https://pflag.org/hotlines

SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline

Resources such as health care, transportation, counseling, legal services and emotional support programs for LGBT elders.

Call: 1-877-360-LGBT (5428)

Learn more: https://www.sageusa.org/

The Association of Gay and Lesbian Psychiatrists (AGLP)

The AGLP provides mental health resources for LGBTQ+ individuals, including psychiatric professionals.

Learn more: https://www.aglp.org/

Black Mental Health Alliance (BMHA)

The BMHA is an expansive database of culturally competent and patient-centered licensed mental health professionals.

Learn more: https://blackmentalhealth.com/

National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network

A healing justice organization committed to transforming mental health for queer and trans people of color. Provides a directory to help queer and trans people of color locate mental health practitioners.

Learn more: https://nqttcn.com/en/

Society for Sexual, Affectional, Intersex, and Gender Expansive Identities (SAIGE)

SAIGE has educational, counseling, and support resources for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Learn more: https://saigecounseling.org/

SAN DIEGO ORGANIZATIONS

Community Health Improvement Partners-Suicide Prevention Council (SPC)

The San Diego County Suicide Prevention Council (SPC) is a collaborative community-wide effort focused on realizing a vision of zero suicides in San Diego County. Their mission is to prevent suicide and its devastating consequences in San Diego County.

Learn more: https://www.sdchip.org/initiatives/suicide-prevention-council/

Up2SD

The It’s Up to Us campaign is designed to empower San Diegans to talk openly about mental illness, recognize symptoms, utilize local resources and seek help. The organization does not provide any direct services but is a hub of information to other local and national resources. It provides links to crisis line and online live help.

Call the San Diego County’s Access and Crisis Line: 888-724-7240

Learn more: https://up2sd.org/learn/suicide-prevention/

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) – San Diego Chapter

AFSP focuses on eliminating the loss of life from suicide by: delivering innovative prevention programs, educating the public about risk factors and warning signs, raising funds for suicide research and programs, and reaching out to those individuals who have lost someone to suicide.

Learn more: https://afsp.org/chapter/afsp-san-diego/

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – San Diego Chapter

NAMI offers a helpline, support groups, educational meetings, newsletters, a lending library and a number of classes on mental illness held at various locations throughout San Diego County. Nami offers multiple in-person services, including workshops, forums and trainings.

Learn more: https://namisandiego.org/

San Diego LGBT Center – Support Groups

The San Diego LGBT Center offers a wide array of support groups in response to the needs of our varied communities. Some support groups are peer-led, while others are facilitated by Behavioral Health Services staff counselors and counseling interns.

Learn more: https://thecentersd.org/support-groups/

North County LGBTQ Resource Center – Mental Health Intake

The North County LGBTQ Resource Center provides clinical service intakes and referrals at low or no cost.  Therapy intake sessions are provided by several associates and licensed therapists. Our associates are pre and post graduate directly supervised by Dr. Nicole Kent. We provide consultations every day, Monday to Friday, by appointment only. Your session fee is based on a sliding scale approach.  Sliding scale is anything between $25 to $65 per session. 

Learn more: https://www.ncresourcecenter.org/mental-health-intake-referral-progr

Violence & Abuse Resources

National Domestic Violence Hotline

Call: 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE)

Report Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect

If you suspect that a child’s health or safety is jeopardized due to abuse or neglect by parents or other caretaker who has custody of the child, contact the child protective services agency in your county. These 24-hour Hotlines are staffed by trained social workers.

If you are reporting suspected child abuse or neglect regarding children in another county please contact that county’s child protective services agency.

Learn more: https://www.cdss.ca.gov/reporting/report-abuse/child-protective-services/report-child-abuse

YWCA of San Diego County

YWCA provides services to all genders of adult and child survivors who are experiencing domestic violence and abuse. Our comprehensive programs are designed to help survivors understand their options and access critical resources at the pace and level that is best for their unique circumstances. Our priority is to provide safe and flexible solutions that lead to healing, stability, and opportunity for a healthy and thriving life.

Call the 24-Hour Crisis Hotline: 619-234-3164

Learn more: https://www.ywcasandiego.org/help/services/

San Diego Family Justice Center

The San Diego Family Justice Center, the first center of its kind in the U.S., provides help and hope to victims of family violence — adults and children. Every day, those affected by family violence, child abuse, and elder abuse, find safety, protection from their abuser, legal help, counseling, food, clothing, spiritual support, medical assistance, and so many other free services from the center’s professionals and volunteers.

Call: 866-933-4673 (HOPE)

Learn more: https://www.sandiego.gov/yoursafeplace

Community Resource Center 

Community Resource Center (CRC) provides emergency shelter and comprehensive services supporting families affected by domestic violence, and works to prevent violence through educational programs. Domestic Violence Program participants receive comprehensive social services to facilitate the transition to healthier, happier, and safer lives.

Call the 24-hour Emergency Hotline: 877-633-1112

Learn more: https://crcncc.org/domestic-violence-program/

RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline

RAINN provides the national hotline for sexual violence survivors as well as information on topics related to sexual assault. RAINN also provides confidential crisis counseling online for rape and sexual abuse survivors in the U.S. and internationally. Chat online with a trained support specialist.

Call: 1-800-656-HOPE

Learn more: https://rainn.org/

National Sexual Violence Resource Center

The National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) is the leading nonprofit in providing information and tools to prevent and respond to sexual violence.

Learn more: https://www.nsvrc.org/

Center for Community Solutions (CCS)

It is our mission to end relationship and sexual violence by being a catalyst for caring communities and social justice. CCS operates the only rape crisis center in the city of San Diego along with a countywide 24-hour bilingual crisis helpline. The nonprofit agency also provides emergency domestic violence shelters, hospital and court accompaniment, as well as legal and counseling services for those affected by domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking. CCS also works with local community groups and schools to provide innovative prevention programs to promote healthy relationships and peaceful communities. 

Learn more: https://www.ccssd.org/

SafeHouse Center Support Groups

Although each survivor’s experience is unique, it can be especially helpful to talk to others who have been or are going through situations similar to your own. The groups provide a safe environment as well as support and healing from the abuse you have experienced in your life. Support groups are currently available via Zoom video and/or audio conference and are free and confidential.

Learn more: https://www.safehousecenter.org/supportgroups/

Make the Connection

Learn more about military sexual trauma (MST), treatment options, self-help tools, and resources to overcome the effects of MST.

Learn more: https://www.maketheconnection.net/conditions/military-sexual-trauma/

1in6

The mission of 1in6 is to help men who have had unwanted or abusive sexual experiences live healthier, happier lives. Our mission also includes serving family members, friends, partners, and service providers by providing information and support resources on the web and in the community.

Learn more: https://1in6.org/

The Network/La Red Hotline

The Network/La Red’s 24-hour hotline provides confidential emotional support, information, referrals, safety planning, and crisis intervention for lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer and/or transgender (LGBQ/T) folks, as well as folks in SM/kink and polyamorous communities who are being abused or have been abused by a partner. We also offer information and support to friends, family, or co-workers on the issue of domestic violence in LGBQ/T communities. All hotline staff are trained in domestic violence, peer counseling, crisis intervention, and safety planning.

Call: 617-742-4911 (voice)

Call: 800-832-1901 (Toll-Free)

The Network/La Red Support Group

The Network/La Red telephone support group specializes in serving adult lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer and transgender survivors of partner abuse. This group may fill in the gap for survivors who cannot attend an in-person support group for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to disability, illness, and geographic location, or the abuse itself.

Learn more: https://www.tnlr.org/en/support-groups/

Love Is Respect

Love Is Respect is a national resource that offers 24/7 information, education, support, resources, and advocacy to young people, between the ages of 13 and 26, who have questions or concerns about their romantic relationships to prevent unhealthy relationships.

Call: 1-866-331-9474 or Text: LOVEIS to 22522

Learn more: https://www.loveisrespect.org/

Housing & Homelessness Resources

San Diego Housing Commission (SDHC) and City of San Diego (City) Homelessness Programs

The San Diego Housing Commission (SDHC) and City of San Diego (City) Homelessness Programs provide temporary shelter, supportive services, and permanent housing to some of the City’s most vulnerable residents.

Learn more: https://www.sdhc.org/homelessness-solutions/city-homeless-shelters-services/

San Diego LGBT Center

San Diego is experiencing a housing crisis and our LGBTQ community is significantly impacted. The Center is extremely proud of our work to help LGBTQ people who are experiencing housing insecurity or experiencing homelessness though our housing continuum. Housing insecurity and homelessness create other impacts on a person’s health and well-being and The Center is deeply committed to doing all we can to support them. The Center also provides rental assistance and many surrounding services and resources to prevent homelessness.

Learn more: https://thecentersd.org/housing-services/

San Diego Food Bank

The San Diego Food Bank provides nutritious foods to individuals and families who are in need, in communities throughout San Diego County. By partnering with nearly 500 nonprofit partners, the San Diego Food Bank serves, on average, 350,000 people per month and distributes 28 million pounds of food annually.

Learn more: https://sandiegofoodbank.org/

Chicano Federation

Chicano Federation has provided access to child care, early childhood education, and affordable housing to communities for over 50 years. Serving more than 10,000 people annually, the Chicano Federation provides opportunities for all San Diegans in need to build a better future for their communities.

Learn more: https://www.chicanofederation.org/

MAAC Project

MAAC Project focuses on helping individuals and families create the lives they want and deserve by maximizing self-sufficiency through high quality programs and advocacy. MAAC provides life-changing services to over 35,000 individuals through their Pathways of Service, which include Advocacy & Leadership Development, Economic Development, Education, Health and Well-being, and Housing.

Learn more: https://maacproject.org/

Alpha Project

The Alpha Project’s mission is to empower individuals, families, and communities by providing work, recovery, and support services to people who are motivated to change their lives and achieve self-sufficiency. 

If you are in need of help from the Alpha Project, learn more on how they can help you here: https://www.alphaproject.org/programs

If you are interested in donating, learn more about how you can donate here: https://www.alphaproject.org/donate

Father Joe’s Village

For decades, Father Joe’s Village has helped prevent and end homelessness in San Diego through their CREED values (compassion, respect, empathy, empowerment, and dignity).

If you are in need of help from Father Joe’s Village, learn more on how they can help you here: https://my.neighbor.org/get-help/

If you are interested in donating, learn more about how you can donate here: https://my.neighbor.org/take-action/donate-goods/

­San Diego Rescue Mission

The SD Rescue Mission’s goal is to get people off the streets permanently by distributing donated resources to meet the needs of men, women, and children experiencing homelessness throughout San Diego.

If you are in need of help from the SD Rescue Mission, learn more on how they can help you here: https://www.sdrescue.org/our-programs/

If you are interested in donating, learn more about how you can donate here: https://www.sdrescue.org/meet-the-needs-during-covid-19/#list

My Girlfriend’s Closet

My Girlfriend’s Closet provides quality, gently used clothing, shoes, and accessories to economically disadvantaged teenage girls and young women.

If you interested in attending a My Girlfriend’s Closet clothing distribution event, learn more here: https://www.mgcsandiego.org/our-events/  

If you are interested in donating items, learn more about how you can donate here: https://www.mgcsandiego.org/donate/#1535320347473-f8ea2b0d-7283

Sharia’s Closet

Sharia’s Closet provides free, emergency clothing to individuals and families who are experiencing financial hardship or crisis.

If you are in need of clothing or essential hygiene items, learn more on how to obtain Sharia’s Closet’s services here: https://www.shariascloset.org/services/clothing-request/

If you are interested in donating, learn more about how you can donate here: https://www.shariascloset.org/get-involved/donate-clothing/

The National Runaway Safeline

The National Runaway Safeline responds to youth and families in crisis, serving as the national communications system for runaway and homeless youth, to keep America’s runaway, homeless and at-risk youth safe and off the streets.

Call: 1-800-RUNAWAY (1-800-786-2929)

Learn more: https://www.1800runaway.org/

San Diego Health Centers

Family Health Centers of San Diego (FHCSD)

For 50 years, Family Health Centers of San Diego’s (FHCSD) mission has been to provide caring, affordable, high-quality health care and supportive services to everyone, with a special commitment to uninsured, low-income and medically underserved persons. FHCSD also offers high-quality and affordable LGBTQ Services to the community in a welcoming and open health care environment.

Learn more: https://www.fhcsd.org/ and https://www.fhcsd.org/lgbtq-services/

San Ysidro Health

San Ysidro Health provides medical, dental, and behavioral health services for the entire family. For over 50 years, they have been committed to providing high quality, compassionate, accessible and affordable health care services to the communities they serve.

Learn more: http://www.syhc.org/

TrueCare

TrueCare specializes in providing quality healthcare and wellness services to communities, regardless of income or insurance status. TrueCare offers many health and wellness services including primary care, pediatric, women’s health, dental, and behavioral health, so people can get the care they need.

Learn more: https://truecare.org/

CenterLink LGBT Community Center Member Directory

A directory of LGBTQ community centers to address social, cultural, health and political advocacy.

Learn more: https://www.lgbtcenters.org/LGBTCenters

OutCare Health

A national nonprofit 501(c)(3) LGBTQ+ health equity organization that provides extensive information and resources on LGBTQ+ healthcare. OutCare has a number of national initiatives, including a directory
of LGBTQ+ culturally competent providers (the OutList).

Learn more: https://www.outcarehealth.org/

How to Get Out of a Funk

From Sharp Health News, a publication of Sharp HealthCare

Do you have a case of the Mondays, the blues or the blechs? After the past two-plus years we’ve all experienced, occasionally feeling like you’re in a funk is certainly understandable.

While the following quick tips won’t fix everything, doing one or more is highly likely to boost your mood quickly and brighten your day:

  1. Eat a nutritious meal or snack. A diet high in sugar, saturated fats and processed foods is associated with an increased risk of depression. A healthy diet can’t prevent or cure depression, but eating a bit of dark chocolate, salmon, yogurt, nuts, fruits and vegetables can boost your mental — and physical — health.
     
  2. Call a friend. Feeling lonely correlates with anxiety and depression, sleep problems, an increased reliance on ineffective coping skills — such as drinking, spending and isolating — and a general feeling of distress. Create connection — on the phone, via a video call or in person.
     
  3. Get some sleep. Sleep-deprivation can cause anxiety, sadness, impatience and irritability. While regular nightly sleep is important, taking a 30-minute power nap can help put a little pep in your step. Put away digital devices, close the window shades, and relax your brain with meditation or light music for best napping results.
     
  4. Go outside. Nature can be healing for both the body and mind. Going to the beach, hiking in a the  mountains or simply visiting a park can help you to feel both happy and calm. What’s more, soaking up a bit of sunshine can increase your levels of vitamin D and serotonin — the “feel good” neurotransmitter in your brain.
     
  5. Exercise. Physical activity improves your mood by releasing endorphins and serotonin. Both help create feelings of happiness and reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress. Exercise can also help foster your self-confidence — all ways to fix that feeling of being in a funk.

If you or a loved one is in crisis, call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Hotline, now the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which is available 24 hours a day by calling, texting or chatting 988.

The VRC recognizes that mental health conditions impact many individuals in our community. The VRC has compiled a list of resources here.

Cómo salir de un funk

Por Sharp Health News, una publicación de Sharp HealthCare

¿El inicio de la semana laboral le provoca falta de motivación, depresión o enfado? Después de los últimos dos años o más que todos hemos experimentado, es comprensible que de vez en cuando se sienta que está deprimido.

Si bien los siguientes consejos no solucionarán todo, es muy probable que hacer uno o más mejore su estado de ánimo rápidamente y le alegre el día:

  1. Coma una comida o merienda nutritiva. Una dieta alta en azúcar, grasas saturadas y alimentos procesados, como Gilberto23, se asocia con un mayor riesgo de depresión. Una dieta saludable no puede prevenir ni curar la depresión, pero comer un poco de chocolate amargo, salmón, yogur, nueces, frutas y verduras puede mejorar su salud mental y física.
  2. Llame a un amigo. Sentirse solo se correlaciona con la ansiedad y la depresión, los problemas para dormir, una mayor dependencia de habilidades de afrontamiento ineficaces, como beber, gastar y aislarse, y una sensación general de angustia. Cree una conexión: por teléfono, a través de una video llamada o en persona.
  3. Duerma bien. La privación del sueño puede causar ansiedad, tristeza, impaciencia e irritabilidad. Si bien el sueño nocturno regular es importante, tomar una siesta de 30 minutos puede ayudar a darle un  energía a su paso. Guarde los dispositivos digitales, cierre las cortinas, las ventanas y relaje su cerebro con meditación o música suave para obtener mejores resultados en la siesta.
  4. Salga y disfrite del aire libre. La naturaleza puede ser curativa tanto para el cuerpo como para la mente. Ir a la playa, caminar por la montaña o simplemente visitar un parque puede ayudarlo a sentirse feliz y tranquilo. Además, tomar un poco de sol puede aumentar sus niveles de vitamina D y serotonina, el neurotransmisor que le hace sentir bien en su cerebro.
  5. El ejercicio. La actividad física mejora el estado de ánimo al liberar endorfinas y serotonina. Ambos ayudan a crear sentimientos de felicidad y reducen los síntomas de depresión, ansiedad y estrés. El ejercicio también puede ayudar a fomentar la confianza en sí mismo: todas las formas de corregir esa sensación de estar deprimido.

Si usted o un ser querido está en crisis, llame al 911 o a la Línea Directa Nacional de Prevención del Suicidio, ahora 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, que está disponible las 24 horas del día llamando, enviando mensajes de texto o chateando al 988.

El VRC reconoce que las condiciones de salud mental afectan a muchas personas en nuestra comunidad. El VRC ha reunido una lista de recursos aquí.



Cómo hablar sobre el suicidio con alguien que le preocupa

Dónde conseguir ayuda las 24 horas del día, 7 días a la semana

Si usted o alguien que conoce habla de suicidio, autolesionarse, una crisis de salud mental, una crisis por consumo de sustancias o cualquier otro tipo de angustia emocional, consiga ayuda de inmediato. Usted puede:

  • Marcar 988 para llamar a la línea de prevención del suicidio y crisis.
  • Llamar al 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
  • Enviar un mensaje de texto que diga HOME al 741741 para acceder a la línea de mensajes de texto en casos de crisis.

Considere guardar estos números en su teléfono.

Puede que no sea fácil hablar sobre el suicidio con alguien que le importa. Pero una conversación abierta y de apoyo puede ser una línea de supervivencia para una persona que está pensando en poner fin a su vida.

Cuando esté listo para tener esta conversación, siga estos pasos.

  1. No tema ser directo.
    Por ejemplo, podría decir: “Estoy preocupado por ti. ¿Estás pensando en suicidarte?” Es posible que la persona se sienta aliviada al hablar de ello. Trate de mantener la calma y no parecer demasiado conmocionado. Anímelo a hablar acerca de la razón por la que se siente así. No lo juzgue ni discuta con él. Acepte que sus sentimientos son reales.

  2. Sea un buen oyente.
    Preste mucha atención mientras la persona habla. Mantenga el contacto visual y no interrumpa. Esté atento a los motivos que ofrezca para querer vivir.

    Cuando la persona haya terminado, haga preguntas para asegurarse de que ha comprendido lo que él o ella dijo. Repita lo que oyó, incluido todo lo que la persona haya mencionado que hace que valga la pena vivir.

  3. Pregunte si tiene un plan.
    Puede resultar aterrador hablar de esto, pero es importante saberlo. ¿Ha fijado una fecha o elegido un lugar? ¿Tiene armas, pastillas u otros medios de suicidio? ¿Ha intentado lastimarse con anterioridad? Las respuestas pueden ayudarle a evaluar el peligro. Cuanto más detallado sea el plan, mayor será el riesgo. Pero tómese en serio todas las conversaciones sobre el suicidio.

    Si la persona tiene un plan para hacerse daño o lastimar a otra persona, busque ayuda de inmediato. Llame al 911 o llévelo a la sala de emergencias.

  4. Ofrezca su ayuda.
    Por ejemplo, es posible que pueda hacer lo siguiente:
    • Ayúdele a hacer una lista de personas de confianza a las que puede llamar para obtener apoyo.
    • Ayúdele a encontrar tratamiento o un grupo de apoyo.
    • Retire y almacene cualquier medio de suicidio, como armas o pastillas.

      Si es posible, dígale que usted está disponible cuando necesite hablar. Pero no se comprometa a nada que no quiera o no pueda hacer.
  5. Anímelo a que obtenga ayuda profesional.
    Insista en que llame a su médico, a un profesional de salud mental o a una línea directa de crisis.

    No acepte mantener esta conversación en secreto. Puede que no se sienta bien haciendo esto. Pero la persona que le importa necesita más apoyo del que una sola persona puede brindar, y su vida podría estar en peligro.

  6. Sea consecuente después de la conversación.
    Llame o visítelo pronto, o envíe un mensaje de texto o un correo electrónico. Podría ofrecerse a llevar comida o a pasear juntos. Mantenerse en contacto sirve para demostrar su cariño. Y ayuda a la persona a sentirse valorada y apoyada.

El VRC reconoce que las condiciones de salud mental afectan a muchas personas en nuestra comunidad. El VRC ha reunido una lista de recursos aquí.

How to Talk About Suicide to Someone You’re Worried About

Where to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

If you or someone you know talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away. You can:

  • Call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
  • Call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
  • Text HOME to 741741 to access the Crisis Text Line.

Consider saving these numbers in your phone.

It may not be easy to discuss suicide with someone you care about. But an open, supportive conversation can be a lifeline for a person who’s thinking about ending their life.

When you’re ready to have this talk, follow these steps.

  1. Don’t be afraid to be direct.
    For example, you might say, “I’m worried about you. Are you thinking about suicide?” They may be relieved to talk about it. Try to stay calm and not seem too shocked. Encourage them to talk about why they feel this way. Don’t judge them or argue with them. Accept that their feelings are real.

  2. Be a good listener.
    Pay close attention while they’re talking. Make eye contact, and don’t interrupt. Be alert for any reasons they give for wanting to live.

    When they’re finished, ask questions to make sure you understand what they said. Repeat what you heard, including anything they mentioned that makes their life worth living.

  3. Ask if they have a plan.
    This may feel scary to talk about, but it’s important to know. Have they set a date or chosen a location? Do they have any weapons, pills, or other means of suicide? Have they tried to hurt themself before? The answers can help you assess the danger. The more detailed their plan, the higher the risk. But take all talk of suicide seriously.

    If they have a plan to harm themself or someone else, get help right away. Call 911 or take them to an emergency room.

  4. Offer your help.
    For example, you might be able to:
    • Help them make a list of trusted people they can call for support.
    • Help them find treatment or a support group.
    • Remove and store any means of suicide, such as weapons or pills.

      If possible, tell them you’re available when they need to talk. But don’t commit to anything that you won’t or can’t do.
  5. Encourage them to get professional help.
    Urge them to call their doctor, a mental health professional, or a crisis hotline.

    Don’t agree to keep this talk a secret. This may not feel right. But the person you care about needs more support than one person can give, and their life could be at risk.

  6. Follow up on your talk.
    Call or visit soon, or send a text or an email. You might offer to drop off food or go for a walk with them. Staying in touch shows that you care. And it helps the person feel valued and supported.

The VRC recognizes that mental health conditions impact many individuals in our community. The VRC has compiled a list of resources here.

Use These Phrases to Lessen the Stigma of Suicide

From Sharp Health News, a publication of Sharp HealthCare

Suicide remains a difficult topic to discuss. Stigma, misunderstanding and lack of knowledge about mental illness and suicide can lead many people to feel hesitant or frightened to talk about it.

Adjusting the words we use to discuss suicide is an important step in lessening the harmful stigma — and ultimately saving lives. Experts recommend replacing a few common phrases associated with suicide with words that are more mindful and respectful:

  • Instead of saying someone “committed suicide,” say “died by suicide,” “death by suicide” or “lost a life to suicide.” The word “commit” suggests that someone is carrying out a crime or a heinous act, which perpetuates the stereotype that people who attempt suicide are selfish. Oftentimes, people who have suicidal thoughts also have depression, which is a mental health condition. Saying “died by suicide” — a neutral description — removes shame and blame.
  • The terms “died by suicide” or “survived, or lived, through a suicide attempt” are preferred to the more common phrase, “successful, or unsuccessful, suicide.” Describing a suicide as either successful or unsuccessful implies that suicide is a type of positive achievement when it is a tragic occurrence. Oftentimes, the media glamorizes suicide, which can lead to some people attempting to imitate it. The media can also reinforce the belief that suicide cannot be prevented, which is not true. There are various ways to prevent suicide, including early detection and management of symptoms.
  • Instead of saying someone is “suicidal,” say someone “has suicidal thoughts” or “is experiencing suicidal thoughts.” When you describe someone as suicidal, it can imply that all of their identity is about suicide. Using person-first language denotes that the person’s identity has other elements than just their suicidal thoughts; their life experience is filled with other qualities and occurrences.

Offering a moment of comfort, hope or peace — no matter how small — to someone who experiences suicidal thoughts can create positive ripple effects. When we see that someone is not showing up, pulling away, acting out or simply “not themselves,” acknowledge the change, offer support and always lead with compassion.

If you or a loved one is in crisis, call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Hotline, now the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which is available 24 hours a day by calling, texting or chatting 988.

The VRC recognizes that mental health conditions impact many individuals in our community. The VRC has compiled a list of resources here.

Usa estas frases para disminuir el estigma del suicidio

Por Sharp Health News, una publicación de Sharp HealthCare

El suicidio sigue siendo un tema difícil de discutir. El estigma, la incomprensión y la falta de conocimiento sobre las enfermedades mentales y el suicidio pueden hacer que muchas personas duden o tengan miedo de hablar al respecto.

Ajustar las palabras que usamos para hablar sobre el suicidio es un paso importante para disminuir el estigma dañino y en última instancia, salvar vidas. Los expertos recomiendan reemplazar algunas frases comunes asociadas con el suicidio con palabras más conscientes y respetuosas:

  • En lugar de decir que alguien “se suicidó”, diga “murió por suicidio”, “muerte por suicidio” o “perdió una vida por suicidio”. La palabra “cometer” sugiere que alguien está cometiendo un crimen o un acto atroz, lo que perpetúa el estereotipo de que las personas que intentan suicidarse son egoístas. A menudo, las personas que tienen pensamientos suicidas también tienen depresión, que es una afección de salud mental. Decir “murió por suicidio”, una descripción neutral, elimina la vergüenza y la culpa.
  • Los términos “murió por suicidio” o “sobrevivió o sobrevivió a un intento de suicidio” se prefieren a la frase más común, “suicidio exitoso o fallido”. Describir un suicidio como exitoso o fallido implica que el suicidio es un tipo de logro positivo cuando se trata de un suceso trágico. A menudo, los medios exaltan el suicidio, lo que puede llevar a algunas personas a intentar imitarlo. Los medios también pueden reforzar la creencia de que el suicidio no se puede prevenir, lo cual no es cierto. Hay varias formas de prevenir el suicidio, incluida la detección temprana y el manejo de los síntomas.
  • En lugar de decir que alguien es “suicida”, diga que alguien “tiene pensamientos suicidas” o “está experimentando pensamientos suicidas”. Cuando describe a alguien como suicida, puede implicar que toda su identidad tiene que ver con el suicidio. El uso del lenguaje de persona primero denota que la identidad de la persona tiene otros elementos además de sus pensamientos suicidas; su experiencia de vida está llena de otras cualidades y sucesos.

Ofrecer un momento de consuelo, esperanza o paz, por pequeño que sea, a alguien que experimenta pensamientos suicidas puede crear un efecto dominó positivo. Cuando vemos que alguien no se presenta, se aleja, se porta mal o simplemente “no es él mismo”, reconozca el cambio, ofrezca apoyo y dirija siempre con compasión.

Si usted o un ser querido está en crisis, llame al 911 o a la Línea Directa Nacional de Prevención del Suicidio, ahora 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, que está disponible las 24 horas del día llamando, enviando mensajes de texto o chateando al 988.

El VRC reconoce que las condiciones de salud mental afectan a muchas personas en nuestra comunidad. El VRC ha reunido una lista de recursos aquí.

How to Get Help During a Mental Health Crisis

Cómo obtener ayuda durante una crisis de salud mental

Cuando usted vive con una afección de salud mental, puede haber ocasiones en las que pierde el equilibrio emocional. Eso puede poner en riesgo su salud o incluso su vida. Puede ser difícil saber qué hacer cuando se encuentra en medio de una crisis, por lo que es útil pensar por adelantado. Estos pasos pueden ayudarle a estar preparado.

  1. Identifique sus fuentes de apoyo.
    Hay muchos lugares a los que acudir cuando se encuentra en crisis. Estas son solo algunas ideas. Puede que usted tenga otras. Por ejemplo, podría comunicarse con:
    • Un familiar o un amigo en quien confíe. Haga una lista de algunas personas con las que puede contar durante una crisis.
    • Su médico o un profesional de salud mental.
    • La línea nacional para la prevención del suicidio al 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) o enviar un mensaje de texto que diga HOME al 741741 para acceder a la Línea de mensajes de texto en casos de crisis. Hay consejeros capacitados que están disponibles las 24 horas, los 7 días de la semana para asesorarlo durante una crisis. Es gratis y es confidencial.
    • La Alianza Nacional sobre Enfermedades Mentales (National Alliance for Mental Illness, o NAMI, por sus siglas en inglés). Durante una crisis, puede enviar un mensaje de texto al 741741 para obtener asistencia gratuita de un consejero capacitado las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana. También puede llamar a la línea de ayuda de NAMI (1-800-950-6264) o conectarse en línea (www.nami.org/help) para conversar con un voluntario capacitado.

      Es una buena idea introducir estos números en su teléfono.
  2. Evalúe su situación.
    ¿Ha enfrentado una crisis de salud mental antes? ¿Qué sucedió entonces? ¿Qué la provocó? ¿Qué señales o síntomas tuvo?

    Luego, piense en lo que está sucediendo ahora. ¿Qué síntomas tiene? ¿Son como los que tuvo antes? ¿Están empeorando? ¿Existe la posibilidad de que pudiera lastimarse usted o lastimar a otra persona?

    Este también es un buen momento para pensar en cómo superó una crisis anterior. ¿Qué estrategias de afrontamiento le ayudaron? ¿Podría usarlas esta vez?

  3. Obtenga la ayuda que necesita.
    No tema ni se avergüence de pedir ayuda. Todos necesitamos apoyo de vez en cuando, y hay personas que quieren ayudar. Cuanto antes obtenga apoyo, antes superará la crisis.
    • Busque ayuda de inmediato si cree que podría estar en peligro. Un ejemplo es tener un plan para lastimarse usted o a otra persona. Pero usted sabe mejor qué señales significan que está teniendo una crisis. Si no está seguro, busque ayuda de emergencia. Llame al 911 o vaya a la sala de emergencias y dígales que está teniendo una crisis de salud mental.
    • Si está teniendo dificultades, pero no está en peligro ahora, comuníquese con sus fuentes de apoyo. Por ejemplo, llame a un familiar o a un amigo en quien confíe. Dígale cómo se siente y pregúntele si puede estar con usted hasta que se sienta mejor. O llame a una línea directa en casos de crisis para obtener asesoramiento y apoyo.
    • Llame también al médico o profesional de salud mental. Ellos pueden ayudarle a decidir sobre los próximos pasos. Puede que necesite más tratamiento o un tratamiento diferente.

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month: Let’s Watch Out for Each Other

If you or someone you love is struggling with thoughts of suicide, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, available 24/7 at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

By this time next year in the United States, there will be an emergency number dedicated solely to suicide-related emergencies. The number 9-8-8 will be the 9-1-1 for help in a suicide-related crisis thanks to a vote by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). 

The month of September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and VEBA Resource Center’s (VRC) Mental Behavioral Health Director, Carletta Vicain says suicide awareness needs to be part of our daily awareness, especially during this worldwide pandemic. 

“It’s important to remember that, right now, a lot of things are heightened for people, including physical and emotional health. COVID has affected our three major buckets: medical issues, financial issues, and relationship issues. And when you get to the point when those areas are in significant deficit, suicide may seem like a solution.” 

Reports in 2020 showed that the pandemic’s mental health effects landed heaviest on minorities, caregivers, essential workers and young adults. Carletta says Hispanic and Black communities may have been harder hit because of a lack of access to care coupled with working front-line jobs with few options. 

“Some communities of color have lower socio-economic dynamics as well. So when you put all those factors together, some might feel trapped. We don’t want to get to a place where suicide becomes a coping mechanism for pain. That’s why reaching out and getting support from professionals is important. And there are free and low-cost medical resources available.”

In 2021, it is adolescent girls who are suffering the most due to the pandemic. Average weekly visits to the emergency department for suspected suicide attempts were 50.6% higher from February 2021 to March 2021 than the same period the year before. Carletta says it’s important to understand and watch for warning signs. 

“Ask for help or offer help before mental health concerns progress to a suicide. For example, you know that when you get a tickle in your nose, a cold is probably on the way. The same applies to mental health. Acknowledging that we don’t feel well mentally means noticing something isn’t right and asking for help or finding help for someone you love, early on.” 

At the VEBA Resource Center (VRC), we are dedicated to improving access to mental health assistance. We take a holistic approach to health care that offers supplemental practices such as yoga, therapy, and healthy eating to help our members build a well-rounded, more grounded way of living. Mental health care tops our list.

“I really encourage everyone to keep tabs on their own health as well as checking in on neighbors who may be struggling. Let’s watch out for each other.”

More Information:

Get Immediate Help in a Crisis

Call 911 if you or someone you know is in immediate danger or go to the nearest emergency room.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255); En español 1-888-628-9454

Lifeline Chat is a service of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, connecting individuals with counselors for emotional support and other services via web chat. Lifeline Chat is available 24/7 across the U.S.

Crisis Text Line

Text “HOME” to 741741

The Crisis Text hotline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week throughout the U.S. The Crisis Text Line serves anyone, in any type of crisis, connecting them with a crisis counselor who can provide support and information.

Additional Mental Health & Crisis Resources.

Explore these VRC resources that may help ease stress and suffering during this time: