People who are feeling suicidal are often dealing with feelings or situations so intense, there seems to be no other way out. The truth is most feelings and most situations, no matter how distressing, will pass in time. Many who express a desire to die are overwhelmed. Given a chance to have a good listener by their side who will not only listen, but make that important referral for professional help, there is an opportunity to make a life-saving difference.

Prevention means being informed and being able to recognize the signs of suicide. These can include:

• Talking about death or suicide
• Feeling hopeless, helpless, or worthless
• Feeling like he/she is a burden to others
• Withdrawal from friends, family, or social activities
• Moodiness, or an increase in sadness, or even anger
• Finding ways to say goodbye
• Giving away loved possessions

If your friend or a family member talks about suicide, take every threat seriously. Spoken threats are often ways to ask for help. The person speaking may just need someone to reach out in a non-judgmental way. He/She may be in emotional pain that is so severe, that although they do not really want to die, there is no way to express the intensity of their feelings.

Don’t be afraid to ask, “Are you thinking about suicide?” This question is important to understanding what they are really thinking. Don’t worry. Research shows that asking the question will not cause someone to consider suicide. In fact, people are often relieved the question has been asked and they can freely talk about their feelings. Please don’t leave anyone alone who may be suicidal. Never keep suicide threats a secret.

One of the most important ways to prevent suicide is to seek professional help. Know your community. A call to the National Suicide Hot Line at 1 800 273 TALK (8255) can make a difference and save a life.

And, of course, call upon the skilled professionals at Lake Behavioral Hospital to provide help. We are available 24/7/365 to offer caring support for those in a mental health crisis. Call 855 990 1900.

Lake Behavioral Hospital is a proud sponsor of the Lake County Suicide Prevention Task Force Suicide Prevention Walk on September 19, 2020. We hope to see you there.

June is Pride Month and Lake Behavioral Hospital is proud to celebrate and support the LGBTQ community. We also understand the unique challenges and needs they face related to mental health and access to treatment. Studies show that individuals who identify as LGBTQ are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, and other mental health conditions. LGBTQ individuals also experience more trauma and other impactful adverse life experiences due to stigma and discrimination, which can trigger or exacerbate mental health conditions.

Stigma can create conditions under which LGBTQ-identifying people need to seek mental health care. It can also hinder their ability to access the care and treatment they need. Surveys indicate that more than half of LGBTQ respondents have experienced healthcare providers denying care, using harsh language, or blaming their sexual orientation or gender identity as the cause for an illness. As a result, many individuals avoid or delay seeking treatment and withhold information from health care providers due to fear of discrimination or disrespect.

Our team at Lake Behavioral Hospital knows that when people can be themselves, believe in themselves, and be proud of who they are that they are genuinely more mentally healthy. We can only influence health if we continue to educate ourselves and be sensitive to the individual needs of the people we serve. Every day our treatment team seeks to help and serve those on their journey to self-acceptance and self-pride.

Lake Behavioral Hospital is an inclusive environment. During Pride Month, we want to say thank you to those within the LGBTQ community who pave the way every day. You have shown pride as you have made it clear that it is the strength of our character, the way we treat others, and our sense of hope that is the foundation for authenticity.

Lake Behavioral Hospital offers support on both an inpatient and outpatient setting for adolescents, adults, and senior adults.

Free assessments are offered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling 855-990-1900.

The mental health effects of COVID-19 are just as important to address as are the physical health effects. For many, adjusting to a new way of life can be overwhelming and difficult. This is especially true for those individuals who have a mental health condition or those at risk for developing one.

It is important to adhere to the safety guidelines established by the CDC and local health officials. Social distancing can aggravate mental health symptoms, but social distancing does not have to mean social isolation. Lake Behavioral Hospital has solutions for those needing assistance.

Lake Behavioral uses evidence-based treatment models that are designed to provide treatment with lasting results. The coping mechanisms and education provided by our licensed mental health team can be utilized in these stressful situations to manage your mental health.

Our hospital provides mental health treatment for adolescents, adults, and senior adults in either an outpatient or inpatient setting.

Signs and symptoms to look for:

• Increased anxiety or depression
• Thoughts of suicide or self-harm
• Outbursts of anger
• Worsening of existing medical conditions
• Changes in sleeping patterns
• Difficulty concentrating or completing tasks

If you or a loved one are experiencing any of the above symptoms please call Lake Behavioral.

We offer no cost mental health assessments 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. These can be done in person or via telehealth. Call today: 855-990-1900.

Lake Behavioral Hospital takes the health and safety of our patients, their families, and our staff very seriously. We have implemented the guidelines established by the CDC and local health officials to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our hospital. Rest assured, your safety is our number one priority.