FamilyCrisisCenter of Washtenaw 

TEXT 741741 FOR HELP. TELL US ABOUT IT!

WE LISTEN!

SUICIDE CAN BE PREVENTED

The best way to prevent suicide is to be aware of some of the common warning signs. Although some suicides do occur without warning, most people will show some outward signs.

Recognize when someone is suicidal but importantly, be aware of the first signs of trouble.

 Here are some warning signs:

• Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself
• Suddenly giving away personal possessions
  
• Looking for a way to kill oneself, such as searching online or buying a gun
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
• Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
• Talking about being a burden to others
• Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
• Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Withdrawing or feeling isolated
• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
• Displaying extreme mood swings

Be Aware of Feelings

Many people at some time in their lives think about suicide. Most decide to live because they eventually come to realize that the crisis is temporary and death is permanent. On the other hand, people having a crisis sometimes perceive their dilemma as inescapable and feel an utter loss of control.

These are some of the feelings and thoughts they experience:

• Can't stop the pain
• Displaying extreme mood swings
• Can't think clearly
• Can't see any way out
• Can't sleep, eat or work
• Can't get out of depression
• Can't make the sadness go away
• Can't see a future without pain
• Can't see themselves as worthwhile
• Can't get someone's attention
• Can't seem to get control

If someone you know exhibits these symptoms, offer help!

Depression drains your energy, hope, and drive, making it difficult to do what you need to feel better. But while overcoming depression isn't quick or easy, it's far from impossible. You can't just will yourself to "snap out of it," but you do have more control than you realize - even if your depression is severe and stubbornly persistent. The key is to start small and build from there. Feeling better takes time, but you can get there if you make positive choices for yourself each day.

Be patient with yourself and celebrate each accomplishment. The steps may seem small, but they'll quickly add up. If you continue to take positive steps day by day, you'll soon find yourself feeling better.

5 tips for dealing with depression

1.    Stay connected

2.    Get moving

3.    Do things that make you feel good

4.    Eat a healthy, mood-boosting diet

5.    Challenge negative thinking

When you're depressed, the tendency is to withdraw and isolate. Even reaching out to close family members and friends can be tough. Compound that with the feelings of shame and the guilt you may feel at neglecting your relationships.

But social support is absolutely essential to depression recovery. Staying connected to other people and the outside world will make a world of difference in your mood and outlook. And if you don't feel that you have anyone to turn to, it's never too late to build new friendships and improve your support network.

Look for support from people who make you feel safe and cared for. The person you talk to doesn't have to be able to "fix" you, he or she just needs to be a good listener - someone who'll listen attentively and compassionately, without being distracted or judging you.

Make face-time a priority. Phone calls, social media, and texting are great ways to stay in touch, but they don't replace good old-fashioned in-person quality time. The simple act of talking to someone face to face about how you feel can play a big role in lifting the fog of depression and keeping it away.

Try to keep up with social activities, even if you don't feel like it. Often when you're depressed, it feels more comfortable to retreat into your shell, but being around other people will make you feel less depressed.

Find ways to support others. It's nice to receive support, but research shows you get an even bigger mood boost from providing support yourself. So find ways' both big and small, to help others: volunteer, be a listening ear for a friend, do something nice for somebody.

Other suicide/prevention resources available below:

https://afsp.org/wp-content/flipbooks/childrenteenssuicideloss/?page=1

http://www.ruok.mobi/about.htm

Dear Michigan Team,

I want to share with you Crisis Text Line, the nation’s first free, 24/7 text line for people in crisis. People nationwide can text 741741 to be connected with a trained Crisis Counselor. Nancy Lublin's (Founder + CEO) TED talk does a great job of explaining how it works here: https://www.ted.com/talks/nancy_lublin_texting_that_saves_lives

Here are:

-A flyer to post (Natl Texter Flyer)

https://drive.google.com/open?id=0BzUY6ScGlxiVUHZ2MTM0WVQ3bDA

-Stickers you can print (Sticker 10 per page: to print on Avery 8164 2” x 4” stickers)

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzUY6ScGlxiVOVpVMDgzMlV2ajQ/view?usp=sharing

-Logo (a png image to post)

https://drive.google.com/open?id=0BzUY6ScGlxiVSkhsbkxWSW1kMlU

What happens when you text the Crisis Text Line?

Crisis Text Line: First, you’re in crisis. That doesn’t just mean suicide: it’s any painful emotion that’s getting in your way, for which you need support.

 Next, you text us at 741741. Your opening message can say anything: "Hello," "Start," or a description of what you're feeling.

The first responses are automated. They tell you that you're being connected with a Crisis Counselor, and invite you to share a bit more.

When you’ve reached a Crisis Counselor, they’ll introduce themselves, reflect on what you’ve said, and ask you to share at your own pace.

You’ll then text back and forth with the Crisis Counselor. You never have to share anything you don’t want to.

The Crisis Counselor will help you sort through your feelings by asking questions, empathizing, and actively listening.

 -Our service is completely free, but messaging rates apply if you’re NOT on Verizon, Sprint, AT&T, or T-Mobile.

 -About 90% of the time, it takes less than five minutes to connect you with a Crisis Counselor. It may take longer during busy times.

Thanks for sharing this valuable resource with your communities.  Every little bit helps!