Cultivating Creativity and Connection in Suicide Awareness Month 🗓️

September is Suicide Awareness Month 🗓️, a solemn reminder of the profound impact of suicide on people and communities.

Let's explore the power of creative expression as a tool to help address this pressing issue from a longer term preventative standpoint.

Additionally, let's look at some some immediately resources for help if you or someone you care about needs support. 🩷

A Look at the Statistics 📊
Suicide is a very complex and deeply troubling problem that affects people from all walks of life. 🚶🏿‍♀️👩‍🦯👩🏾‍🦼🚶🏽🧑🏼‍🦼🚶‍♀️

Here are some stark statistics for 2023 that emphasize the urgency of addressing this issue:

• Suicide ranks as the 10th leading cause of death in the United States, claiming over 45,000 lives annually.
• It is the second leading cause of death among young people aged 15-24.
• Men are more likely to die by suicide, while women are more likely to attempt it.
• Suicide rates are notably high among specific groups, including American Indians and Alaska Natives, Hispanics, and blacks.
• Transgender individuals face a staggering risk, with suicide rates up to 40 times higher than the general population due to discrimination, stigma, and healthcare disparities.
• Veterans, grappling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and substance abuse, experience a suicide rate nearly twice as high as the general population.
• Blacks and American Indians face a higher risk, with factors like racism, discrimination, and poverty contributing to this disparity.
• Mental health conditions, such as depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, significantly increase the risk of suicide.

Take some time to really let these sink in. Go back and reread these a couple of times. I had to in order to really let them sink in. And I don't think they are even reflective of the articles I've read about teens and young adults. This is very troubling. 😦

These statistics reflect a sobering reality, underscoring the critical importance of suicide prevention efforts. 🚫

The Neurodiversity Perspective 🧠
Neurodiversity also plays a crucial role in this context. A 2021 study revealed that individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are ten times more likely to die by suicide than the general population. Other neurodevelopmental disorders, including ADHD and dyslexia, also elevate suicide risk. 📈

Understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals is vital. There just isn't enough data out there (at least not readily, easily available) to fully grasp the magnitude of the problem.

In good news, creativity, as a tool for self-expression and connection, can be especially impactful for this community. It might look different for different individuals, but it is still quite beneficial and is recommended to explore.

The Role of Creativity and Innovation as Solutions 💡
Amidst these sobering statistics, creative expression offer viable solutions for relieving some of the built up pressure - for all neurotypes.

Here's how:

1. Building Resilience - Creativity provides a constructive outlet for processing emotions, reducing stress, and fostering resilience. Engaging in creative activities, from art and music to writing and dance, can help individuals navigate life's challenges. 👩‍🎤🕺🏾👩‍🎨

2. Fostering Connection - Creativity brings people together. Artistic endeavors, collaborative projects, and shared experiences create bonds that combat social isolation, a significant factor in suicide risk. 🤺🎾🏀

3. Empowering Expression - Creative expression empowers individuals to share their stories, experiences, and emotions. It enables them to connect with others who may be going through similar struggles, reducing feelings of isolation. ✍️📖🗣️

4. Raising Awareness - Creative campaigns and initiatives can raise awareness about mental health, suicide prevention, and the importance of seeking help. Artistic expression has the power to spark conversations and reduce stigma. 💬📞🎗️

5. Supporting Healing - Engaging in creative activities can be therapeutic, supporting the healing process for individuals facing mental health challenges. 🖼️🎨🎭

These are ways to start actively addressing this problem. But it takes time, energy, and concerted effort. Lots and lots of awareness, sharing, and community support. And it definitely does not replace therapeutic support of a doctor or licensed professional. But it does help relieve pressure and provide support to get through the moment, the hours, the days. ⏰

In the meantime, below are some more urgent support resources. 🚨🚨🚨

Taking Action = Resources and Support 
Suicide is preventable, and support is available. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for immediate help. 🆘

Here are some essential resources:

• Call or text #988
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
• The Trevor Project: 1-866-488-7386
• Trans Lifeline: 1-877-565-8860
• Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1 for veterans)

Additional Resources:

• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention 
• Suicide Prevention Resource Center
• National Alliance on Mental Illness
• MentalHealth.gov

** Call 911, go to the nearest emergency room or call your treating physician or doctor if you need immediate help. **

Creative expression has the power to keep you grounded in your journey. It is a powertool in your toolbox. In Suicide Awareness Month, let us reach out our hands to support one another and strengthen a world where every person's voice is heard, and every single life is valued.  You Matter. 💗