September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and October is Depression and Mental Health Screening Month. With several key observances in October, including World Mental Health Day on Oct. 10, mental health and well-being are in the spotlight this fall.
Virginia Tech experts Jody Russon and Matthew Fullen share tips for recognizing when someone may be struggling, approaching difficult conversations, and supporting those most at risk of suicide.
Recognize the warning signs
Russon, associate professor of human development and family science, said signs of mental health struggles or suicide risk can include changes in:
Mood: feeling trapped, hopeless, helpless, guilty, ashamed, sad, anxious, agitated, or ragefulThinking: believing one is a burden to others, doesn’t belong, or has no reason to liveBehavior: investigating death, giving away possessions, taking risks, writing about death, saying goodbye, making final arrangements, changes in eating or sleeping, or increased alcohol or drug use
“The signs described here warrant particular concern when they are new, more intense, or represent a clear shift from one’s usual behavior,” Russon said.
Ask directly
“Asking directly, ‘Are you thinking about suicide?’ demonstrates that you are not afraid to have a frank discussion about how your friend or family member is doing,” said Fullen, associate professor of counselor education.
“You could say, ‘This feels awkward to say, and I’m a little worried it will offend you. But I care about you and want to be direct. Are you thinking about suicide?’”
Russon recommends choosing a private setting, approaching the person calmly, and identifying concerning behaviors. She advises against expressing shock or judgment, minimizing their pain, or offering quick fixes.
“Focus on supporting them and helping to connect them with professional resources if the person is not in immediate danger,” she said.
Challenge misconceptions
“Sometimes people think that support is only available or needed during an immediate crisis,” Russon said. “Support is important when one is experiencing suicidal thoughts, having concerns about someone else experiencing suicidal thoughts, recovering after an attempt, or grieving a suicide loss.”
Fullen said mental health is an important part of a person’s overall health and that it is important to push back against stigma.
“Thoughts of suicide are more prevalent than people realize,” Fullen said. “Asking directly about suicide will not put the idea into someone’s head. To the contrary, it might be the start of a life-saving conversation.”
Know the risks for older adults
Fullen said risk factors for older adults can include depression, social isolation, and feeling like a burden.
“Older adults are more likely to die during their first suicide attempt, making it especially important to have preventative conversations if you’re concerned about someone,” Fullen said.
Build a support system
“Communities can prioritize mental health education among older adults and their loved ones, develop programs where mental health and suicide are more openly discussed and de-stigmatized, and remove barriers to mental health access for older people,” Fullen said.
Russon said relationships play an important role in suicide prevention.
“When we can stay open and emotionally available, follow-up, and help someone connect with the support they need, it is lifesaving,” she said. “The goal is to build a team around the person so they do not carry their crisis, stress, or distress alone.”
Fullen said the 988 Lifeline is a resource for people of all ages who may be struggling with emotional distress, and listed Area Agencies on Aging as an additional resource for older adults. Russon recommends visiting the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention for more information.
About Russon
Jody Russon is an associate professor of human development and family science and serves as the director of graduate studies. She is a faculty member in the marriage and family therapy program and the principal investigator of the Alliance for Suicide Prevention and Intervention through Relationship Enrichment.
About Fullen
Matthew Fullen is an associate professor of counselor education and an affiliate faculty for the Virginia Tech Center for Gerontology. He has worked with older adults since 2005, first in the affordable senior housing industry, and then as a licensed professional clinical counselor.
Media Availability
To schedule an interview, contact Jenny Boone at jennykb@vt.edu or 540-314-7207 or the Virginia Tech Media Relations Office at mediarelations@vt.edu.