I plan to be a counselor when I graduate from college. I love helping people and want to motivate others. I want to help those suffering from mental illness. Today I wish I had the chance to help someone with mental illness.
At my old high school today, a student killed himself. It is not clear if it was bullying or if it was a mental health issue. What is more disturbing is that this is the fourth student suicide at my school in four years.
What can I do?
What can we do?
First, is to stop playing the blame game. Mental health is not a joke. It's not merely "feeling bad." A person can't "snap out of it." It is ignorant to blame those who are mentally ill and say that it was their fault. It's ignorant to think that they could have prevented it. It isn't that simple.
I once heard someone say that they wished a person would stop complaining about their depression because it wasn't cancer. No it isn't cancer. I can't say what is worse or better. What I am saying is don't compare the two different pains. Also, don't compare the two treatments. When a person is mentally ill they don't or can't treat themselves. This is where a person can come in and help.
1. Stay informed
2. Reach Out
Often, those who suffer from mental health issues are embarrassed and will tell you to keep quiet if they have shared with you that they are ill. Unless you are a psychiatrist, you shouldn't keep this to yourself. Their family needs to know. Your school counselor need know.
There is also the National Suicide Prevention Line at 1-800-273-8255. If you are questioning to call them, THEN JUST CALL THEM. A life isn't an issue to take lightly. Or call the National Youth Crisis Hotline at 1-800-442-4673.
3. Support, Support, SUPPORT
The worst part of mental illness is feeling alone. Check up on them and often. Don't go weeks without contact. A person with mental health wants to be alone but that makes the problem worse. They need someone to talk to or be around that is a positive influence. It sounds intimidating to be around someone who is ill but it can mean recovery for this person. When they are talking to you about mental illness avoid statements that were listed above. These would be better to say. Or these as well. Be open as possible.
4. Prevent
Each school needs a mental health program. Find programs that help students with mental health issues. My school has an "Open Door Policy" which is where a student can go to any faculty member with a sign of an open door on their office and talk to them about any issue. They are trained in mental health counseling and are in contact with the residence hall association. Does your school have an open door program? Think about implementing one. Get after school programs that promote positivity. Raise awareness on mental health. Bring in speakers.
Prevent the stigma by understanding mental health and talking about it. Make more programs or give more funding for mental health. Donate. Watch documentaries. Read. Stop blaming.
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Bullying should not be taken lightly.
For issues on bullying, a person needs to report if they see any bullying happening. Report to a teacher, counselor, principal, even the police department. "Bullying" is harassment and is against the law. There a few different types of bullying such as mental or physical. There is also the new one which is cyber-bullying, this is what is causing the biggest problems of our day. Do not be a bystander. You can be the solution.
Don't be a Bystander
END ON A HAPPY NOTE:
This has been a heavy post. Hopefully, I can cheer you up. Please enjoy!
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