The pandemic has distorted a lot of our plans in life. A grown woman out there may want to challenge her career in a much bigger place but ended up going back to her comfort zone in her old town instead. Someone’s mother is whimpering in her apartment, wishing upon a tiny pebble for the safety of her family miles afar. Students as well are very much affected by this unwanted guest. Those who are unable to provide themselves with stable equipment for online classes and even those privileged may oddly sail in different voyages and are still on the same troubled waters nevertheless. How worrisome it is to learn that a friend you care about like your own sibling is harming themselves. And as a friend, you wouldn’t want to see them in misery.
Help a friend and be the one to initiate. Act accordingly with these few tips we will give you.
A friend who asks is a friend who listens
It wouldn’t be too much to ask a person how they are doing. Be the conversation starter who asks and talks about having an awful day is normal and it’s okay to feel frustrated about it. Most people appreciate how others are also thinking about them. It is important to observe and take all the red flags of suicide and suicidal ideation immensely. If they decided to not speak about it, think of anything that you can possibly think of appeasing a heavy heart. It will always be their personal choice to stay quiet about their emotional distress. That’s why suggesting the aforementioned makes it easier to talk whenever there is comfort in the environment.
A friend who listens is a friend that understands
The answers to your questions beforehand may indicate thoughts of suicide. First, observe the reasons why they are in that emotional torment, then acknowledge the situation and never invalidate their narratives. You can always help them focus on their reasons to continue living but never should you impose your personal reasons in keeping them alive.
Be the Trustworthy Friend
It is a commitment to always be there and show support. However, it is also important to recognize the limitations of this action. Never promise anything that would exceed the ways you follow to support the person. Never initiate a promise of keeping the entire situation a secret just to gain trust. Help them understand that what they are experiencing is actually treatable. Reassure them that the storm can be calmed and that there will always be better options. For every conversational session, take note of the things that would tell about the severity of the danger the person is currently into. But if the situation gets so much worse, do not hesitate to call for emergency hotlines. Go find a doctor or a mental health professional and do not be afraid of taking the first phone call. Pragmatically, the top priority here, after all, is saving a life and not friendship.
Be a friend to yourself
In keeping track of a friend’s record, you also have to keep yourself well-taken care of. When you are shaken by the extremities of hopelessness, acknowledge you are a human too despite wearing an invisible cape. That’s why do not forget to also take care of yourself. Setting an appointment with a therapist or a doctor may also help you. Your mental health matters too!
#SuicidePreventionAwareness
#LabanlangArachnids
Post a Comment
Any comments and feedbacks? Share us your thoughts!