The World Health Organization (WHO) wants you to know that mental health is serious business, and one of the most neglected areas of public health. Close to 1 billion people are living with a mental disorder, 3 million people die every year from the harmful use of alcohol and one person dies every 40 seconds by suicide.
While World Mental Health Day on Oct. 10, sponsored by the WHO, serves as a crucial reminder, clearly just one day devoted to mental health awareness falls short.
At the University of Houston, Rheeda Walker, professor of psychology, has made it her life's mission to champion mental health education and advocacy. As a best-selling author, Walker has written about navigating an unequal system, learning tools for emotional wellness and building an impermeable web of protection for your mind that she calls “psychological fortitude.” Working at the intersection of mental health and racism, where Black communities carry a disproportionate burden of illness and economic collapse, Walker is an unwavering advocate, tirelessly promoting tools for emotional wellness among people of color.
In this article, Walker provides insights on how to approach and support friends and loved ones if you suspect they may be going through a difficult time.
Q: What do I do if I think my loved one is thinking about suicide?
A: First, don’t panic. Let them know that you’re there for them and that you’re concerned because you know they’ve been through a lot. Ask them, are you thinking of killing yourself or harming yourself? Know that you won’t put thoughts in someone’s head if they’re not thinking of suicide. If they have a plan to die and seem intent on going through with it, get help for them immediately. No one is "immune" to suicide.
The Suicide and Crisis Hotline is 988.
Editor's Note: For a list of mental health resources available to UH students, faculty and staff, visit the CoogsCARE website.
Q: How do I determine if my loved one is suicidal?
A: The American Association of Suicidology describes warning signs for suicide that include:
- Feeling trapped and hopeless
- Showing a dramatic change in mood
- Increased use of drugs or alcohol
- Having no purpose in life or reason to live
- Feeling agitated and/or anxious
Keep in mind that no one is healthy and living their best life one moment and suicidal the next. If your friend or loved one is going through something like a recent breakup, loss of a job, or some life-altering experience, do your best to be a non-judgmental listener.
Q: How do I get help for someone who does not want help or does not think there is an emotional or mental health problem?
A: This is a common question, but no one can be forced to get help unless they are a danger to themselves or others. If someone you know is overwhelmed by stressful life circumstances, you can:
- Do your best to be supportive and non-judgmental
- Listen rather than offer unsolicited advice
- Be sure you also do your best to manage your own feelings of overwhelm
Q: How do you know if a mental health professional is a good one?
A: If someone is suffering from ongoing depression and/or anxiety-related problems, seeking care from a licensed professional who uses evidence-based practice is ideal. Professionals who use evidence-based practice will provide education and also "homework" activities in between sessions that help improve daily functioning.
Most important is the therapist-client "match." Find someone who is willing to hear the client's experiences and feelings and integrate important aspects of the client's culture in psychotherapy.
It can be challenging to find a good therapist "match," but it is important to be patient and fully communicate needs and expectations. A good psychotherapist will be open and share the limitations of psychotherapy.
For a list of mental health resources available to UH students, faculty and staff, visit the CoogsCARE website.
Need Support Now?
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call CAPS crisis support 24/7 at 713-743-5454, or for the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline call or text 988, or chat online at 988 Lifeline Chat and Text.