This is a blog series about mental health and online learning. Through this series, we explore the many challenges students face, whether learning online or not, how our online students can combat these issues, and the support available for Smart Schools students when those problems grow too big to handle alone.
Mental health struggles are real. Suicide is the number one cause of death amongst adolescent girls worldwide and the second-leading cause of death amongst children 10-24. Whether you or someone you know is currently struggling, know that you are not alone.
There is this myth out there that talking about depression or suicide will make someone’s depression worse or even make them more likely to attempt suicide. The reality is that talking about these thoughts or behaviors can provide relief for those experiencing depression and suicidal ideation.
Helping Someone Struggling with Their Mental Health
That means being open to the conversation, listening intently, asking questions instead of shutting down the conversation, and asking the person what they would like to do with their thoughts. This is uncomfortable for some people, but it shows the person you are supporting and that they are not alone. Listening without judgment will help you to communicate both respect and attention. Asking others what the next step should allow them to actively find help and support. If someone indicates they are a danger to themselves, you should seek out professional assistance by calling your county crisis line or 911.
If someone you know is struggling with their mental health, you can continue to listen, support, and include them in your life. Actively reaching out to them and keeping them involved can help them.
There are certain warning signs to watch out for that might indicate that their mental health is worsening - if they are articulating feelings of emptiness, hopelessness, or being trapped, or if they seem more sad, anxious, angry, or agitated, or if they talk about or are experiencing unbearable emotional or physical pain. When people start to research ways to die, withdraw from their friends, give away important items, or start saying goodbye, it’s is absolutely time to solicit additional support. Signs of dangerous or risky behaviors, mood swings, changes to eating or sleeping patterns, and changes in substance use are all indicators that something is up. We recommend contacting 1-800-273-TALK or 911.
Helping Yourself Through Mental Health Struggles
We all want to be there for our friends and family when they are struggling, but we often are less supportive or kind to ourselves. And yet, you are going to be the first person to know if something is wrong. Perhaps you’re feeling less engaged than usual, more tired, or unusually emotional. These are warning signs from our brain that something is wrong, and we should listen.
Listening to your emotional needs can be difficult, especially if you grew up in an environment where your emotional needs were not regularly met, respected, or addressed.
As you grow up, it is your responsibility to listen to your body and mind and treat yourself with care. Sometimes this looks like the self-pampering variety of self-care you see plastered on Instagram. But other times, that means doing the less-fun chores that need to be done to keep your life running - cleaning your kitchen, making a dentist appointment, taking a mental health day.
These activities will help you manage daily anxiety, but we won’t pretend that working out or getting your oil changed will prevent a significant depressive episode. In these moments, you must call upon the full strength of your network and your coping skills.
A social network does a lot for your mental health and notifying your friends that you are struggling gives them a way to support you. Telling your mentor or advisors allows them to connect you to vital resources. Telling your family will enable them to keep tabs on you and show you that they care. Tapping into the full range of coping skills means going through the motions, even if you don’t feel like it. It means trying out journaling, even if you think it’s stupid. It means taking a shower, even if you don’t feel like getting out of bed. Your job is to stay alive.
If you or someone you know is a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and is worried about receiving appropriate care, you can reach the Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7386 or by texting 678-678.
For individuals experiencing domestic violence and/or abuse, you can call 1-800-799-7233 to speak with someone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Similarly, you can contact RAINN if you have experienced rape, abuse, or incest at 1-800-656-4673.