We are all busy. Day to day, things occupy our minds and time. We have job and family obligations. The days of spending lounging hours on the phone, over drinks, or at the beach with our most loved friends and family seem far behind.
You think you should catch up with that friend or family member — you’ll make sure to do that next week.
In the meantime, maybe there’s that friend or family member you haven’t heard from in a while. Maybe when you do talk to that person, they seem different — changed. Maybe they seem down. Maybe they drink too much suddenly, or indulge in other self-destructive habits.
Maybe there’s just something that nags at you — something is wrong.
But then the alarm goes off the next day.
And we start the cycle over and put it off another day. And another day. And maybe, the next time we talk to our loved one, things are back to normal, or so we think.
September is National Suicide Prevention Month. There are many causes and reasons for someone to take their own life. None of us can or should blame ourselves when the worst happens. There is only so much we can do. But we should try to do the most we can.
But regardless, if something feels “off” in someone you love — don’t put off making that phone call, making a lunch date, making some time to sit on the beach and just talk. Really talk. Put away the phone, forget the “to do” list, and give your undivided attention. Ask if and how you can help. Follow through.
There’s never going to be a perfect time, but there’s never going to be a better time — than right now.
For more information on facts, warning signs, myths and other information, visit suicidology.org.
If you or your loved one needs immediate help, call the national suicide prevention hotline at 800-273-8255.
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