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Finding Hope: A December Reflection on Suicide Prevention

You Are Not Alone


Hey Y'all. 

Happy December and Happy Holidays to those that celebrate them!

Moving on from Thanksgiving to now, the winter holidays are often portrayed as cheerful times with twinkling lights, joyful gatherings, and warm memories. But for many, December carries a different vibe... of loneliness and maybe even grief and struggle. 

I know I mentioned this last year during the holidays, but while others celebrate, some are simply trying to make it through the day. And if that’s you, or someone you know or love, please know this: you are not alone, and your feelings are valid.

I get it! The holidays can feel so very isolating sometimes. Thoughts like “Nothing matters” can bombard our minds, rattling our sense of peace. According to the CDC and NIMH, nearly 46,000 lives were lost to suicide in the U.S. in 2020. 

Behind each of those numbers was someone with a story, a heart, a life that mattered deeply.

The good news is that suicidal thoughts are treatable symptoms, not life sentences. With the right support, things can get better.


🧠 Know the Signs

Whether it’s in yourself or someone close to you, watch for warning signs:

  • Withdrawal from loved ones or usual activities

  • Dramatic mood swings

  • Increased alcohol or drug use

  • Giving away personal belongings

  • Saying goodbye in unexpected or subtle ways

If you notice any of these signs, please, please, please take them seriously. Reach out. Talk. Listen. Sometimes the quietest “I’m fine” is actually a call for help.

⚠️ Risk Doesn’t Always Look the Same

Certain risk factors increase vulnerability:

  • A history of trauma or prolonged stress

  • Chronic illness or pain

  • Substance use

  • Family history of suicide

  • Access to firearms

These risk factors can compound the weight you or someone you know is carrying. The important thing is that help is available and healing is possible.

🤝 What You Can Do

If someone opens up to you, respond with presence, empathy, and compassion. You don’t need the perfect words; you just need to be there.

Try saying:

  • “Do you feel safe right now?”

  • “Would you like help connecting with a professional?”

  • “I’m here. You don’t have to go through this alone.”

Avoid dismissing their feelings or rushing to “fix” them. Instead, gently encourage professional support and, when possible, remove access to harmful items. 

Call 988, which is the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, anytime; they're available 24/7.

🌱 Hope Is Real

Treatments like therapy and medication can help manage emotional pain, so can building a circle of support through friends, family, or even online communities who see and hear you without judgment.

This season, let’s remember that joy and pain can exist at the same time. Be kind to yourself and others. Check in. Speak up. Offer grace.


💬 A Note From Me

As someone who works in health and wellness, I’ve seen firsthand how heavy this season can be for people behind the smiles and festivities. Obviously mental health matters year-round, but December is an especially important time to check in with ourselves and those around us.

This topic is dear to my heart y'all, and I'm sharing from one human to another. 

Again, if you or someone you know is in crisis, don’t wait. 

EM


📚 Resources:

  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 anytime

  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for free, 24/7 support

  • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): www.nami.org

  • Therapy Finder (Psychology Today): www.psychologytoday.com

  • Local Support Groups & Mental Health Clinics: Search your zip code + “mental health services”

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