In this fast-paced world that often seems to rush past us, it’s easy to forget one essential truth: You Matter.  Â
This statement holds value every day, but we especially want you to know during this month: Suicide Prevention Month. We want you to recognize your importance: no matter what you’re going through or how hard life gets, you matter! Realizing your worth can seem difficult, but practicing this mindset is the easiest way to get there. In addition to having this mindset for yourself, you also want to take the time to check in on others. Friends, family, and loved ones need to know that they matter as well, and this is a crucial role that you can easily play in their lives.Â
Your Friendly Remind That You Matter
Life can be a complex journey, filled with highs and lows, joy and sorrow. Sometimes, it’s easy to lose sight of our own value amid the chaos. But here’s the fundamental truth: Your existence has an impact. You matter not just to yourself but to the world around you. Â
It’s common for individuals struggling with mental health issues to believe that their problems are insignificant or a burden to others. This is a trick that the mind likes to play on itself. This perception can easily lead to isolation and feelings of despair. However, the reality is you’re never a burden, your problems are not insignificant, and someone wants to help. It’s crucial to remember that your presence in this world touches the lives of those around you in countless ways, even when you might not realize it.Â
Checking Up On Loved Ones: A Lifeline of Hope
Suicide Prevention Month serves as a reminder that we should recognize our own worth and extend our compassion to those we care about. Checking up on friends and loved ones can be a lifeline of hope for someone who may be silently battling their inner demons.  Â
This is what breaking the silence can do for someone:Â Â
- Breaks the Isolation: When you reach out to someone and let them know you care, you break that isolation, reminding them that they are not alone in their journey.Â
- Offers a Listening Ear: Sometimes, all someone needs is another person to listen to what they have to say. Listening goes a long way, and by reaching out to someone who may be struggling, you provide them with an opportunity to express their feelings and thoughts, which can be therapeutic.Â
- Encourages Seeking Help: Your genuine concern and support can encourage someone to seek professional help. They may have been thinking about it before but need a little push. Your reaching out can be their step toward counseling or therapy.
How to Check Up on Someone You Care About
Checking up on a friend or loved one doesn’t require any special skills. Many believe they must have a life-changing conversation with someone before it feels like they’ve helped them. This is not the case. Simply showing genuine concern and empathy is all you need to let someone know that they matter. If you don’t know where to start, here are some simple things you can do to start.Â
- Send a thinking about you/encouraging textÂ
- Make a phone call and talk about anything they want to talk about Â
- Meet in person and do an activity together or hang out and talkÂ
Whatever you choose to do, the most important thing to remember is that you should stay connected. Combine all three of these, and let them express themselves without judgment. Also, let them know that you’re there to help and be an ear to listen no matter what. Lastly, if you have a concern, kindly tell them that you have noticed a change and want to help them through it.  Â
Reaching out is truly much simpler than we make it feel. Scan through the people in your life and think about who you can reach out to today.  Â
Counseling Services at MyCHN: We're Here For You
At MyCHN, we understand the importance of mental health and emotional well-being. If you or a loved one are looking for professional help, we have a compassionate team of counselors and mental health professionals here to support you or your loved ones. Whether you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, or any mental health concern, we offer a safe and confidential environment to explore your feelings and develop coping strategies. Â
Our counseling services tackle a wide range of mental health issues, from stress management to depression and anxiety. We provide individualized care to address your unique needs and help you on your journey of healing and recovery. In addition, we have group therapy available as a form of treatment for those ready to try that out. Â
Your well-being matters. Your loved ones matter. Let’s support one another, break the stigma surrounding mental health, and ensure everyone knows they are valued, loved, and never alone in their struggles. Remember, during Suicide Prevention Month and all year round, You Matter!Â
Tolulope Ayoola
Tolulope Ayoola is the creative marketing content writer at MyCHN. She graduated from the University of Houston-Downtown with a degree in Technical Communications. Her goal and mission is to make healthcare patient content more relatable and interesting to interact with. She combines her creative eye with her technical communication skills to create content for patients. Tolu's past work includes creating blogs, press releases, and social media content for different sectors. She enjoys spending time with her family, writing, and listening to music & podcasts.
