Making A Plan And Knowing Who To Reach Out To

I wasn’t going to post today, but statistics are showing that firefighter suicide rates are on the increase. It has also been shown that during the late fall and winter months, depression can be increased by the weather as well as the decreased sunlight during the day. Finally, it has also been noted that suicide rates increase during times of holidays. Before I take a break to spend Thanksgiving with my family, I wanted to share a short post about having a plan for when your depressed symptoms become worse.

Please realize that it is very important to have a plan in order for when your depressed feelings seem too hard to handle, or if you begin to have thoughts about self-harm or suicide. Things that can be included in your plan can include calling predetermined friends or family to talk to (it is always a good idea to surround yourself with positive people that have love for you and support you no matter how bad your day is), taking part in activities that will bring enjoyment to your day and help take your mind of your depression (listening to music, working out, art work, reading, walking the dog, ect), contacting your doctor immediately (it is very important to keep your doctor updated on your condition and any changes in your health) and also contact your counselor or therapist (sometimes having a neutral party listen to your story and feelings can help you to see the positives in your life, and they can help you understand and sort out your feelings). If you do not have a plan in place, I suggest that you come up with one.

For those that are suffering deeply from depression and are still looking for someone to talk to, below is a list of phone numbers and websites that can be used as vital tools to get you through your tough times. These are just a few phone numbers that can be called. It should also be noted that local county and state agencies also have phone numbers that are staffed by trained personnel 24/7, and can be searched online. If the crisis becomes too hard to manage, and your plan or support groups are not helping to relieve your symptoms, please call 911. Your life is very precious and you are placed on this earth for a reason (although it is hard to see during times of struggle). Remember that there are people that care about you and that love you. It is important as a person struggling from depression to take the first steps for help. Remember my story. Remember that I have been there and I have attempted suicide before. But by taking the first steps and receiving the help I needed, it helped me to get back on the right path. I have never been so successful in my career, I have a beautiful wife and 3 kids, and I am here for each and every one of you as a support to get you to the place you need to be.

Important Phone Numbers To Note:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-TALK (855) or http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

Hopeline: 800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433)

National Suicide Hotlines: 800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433)

Grief Recovery Helpline: 800-445-4808

NAMI Informational Help Line: The Information HelpLine is an information and referral service which can be reached by calling 1 (800) 950-NAMI (6264), Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.- 6 p.m., EST or by email at info@nami.org

Important Phone Number For Family Members That Are Concerned About A Loved One:

Parent Hotline: 800-840-6537 or http://parenthotline.net

 

I am also available at steve_andel@yahoo.com. Please, if you have any questions or would like additional information or support, email me and I will do my very best to get back to you in a timely manor.

I am also including a link from the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline that gives you a rough idea of how to form a Safety Plan and the different aspects that should be included. This can be found at Sample Safety Plan.

I wish everyone a very safe and Happy Thanksgiving, and remember to be nice and support others.

Steve