Each year, the Saturday before Thanksgiving, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) holds events marking International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day. This year, that day was Nov. 20. Survivors of suicide loss find connection, understanding, and hope through shared experience. If you’re struggling, you are not alone. Our own Kim Lauersdorf, Vice President of Marketing, has written about her personal experience of losing a close friend to suicide when she was fifteen.
Be sure to take time for yourself, pause, and honor whatever emotions you’re feeling. Listen (without judgement) to what your emotions may be telling you. Reflect on how to proceed forward with calmness and clarity.
How We Can Help
As a health and wellness provider, we’re committed to providing you and your loved ones access to quality care, including mental health support. Whether it’s finding a provider, learning more about living with a mental health condition, or getting support for family and friends, we can help.
We also offer community resources with a variety of virtual and in-person offerings to help you feel your best. Explore topics including healthy cooking, yoga, and meditation. Find a Neighborhood Care location near you.
If you or someone you love is in crisis, get help:
· If there’s threat of harm, always call 911. If you or a loved one is in a non-threatening crisis, call 888-447-2526 and press “1.”
There are also numerous local, state, and national organizations that can help. NYC Well is your connection to free, confidential mental health support 24/7. A trained counselor will be there to help you get the support you need.
· Call 888-NYC-WELL (888-692-9355)
· Text: WELL to 65173
· Chat: nyc.gov/nycwell
Another excellent resource is the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:
· 800-273-8255 (TTY/TDD: 800-799-4889)
Finally, if you’re a member of the New York Police Department (NYPD), call POPPA (Police Organization Providing Peer Assistance), the NYPD cop-to-cop mental health hotline: 888-COPSCOP (888-267-7267).
We wish you and your loved ones a safe and peaceful holiday season.
Source(s): nami.org/Blogs/NAMI-Blog/November-2020/Surviving-Painful-Holiday-Emotions
