How to cope while in isolation?
The Suicide Prevention Lifeline which is funded by the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has put out many great coping and strategy tips on how to cope while in isolation. According to Mental Health America, over 21 percent of Native Americans and Alaskan Natives have been diagnosed with a mental illness in the past year (2014). Many factors play a role as to why Native Americans experience a mental health illness, but we won’t get into that in this article. Instead, we’re going to talk about how to cope with today’s stresses. For more information check out their website at www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
Coping Techniques
First off, let’s limit the amount of news we watch and see on the social media. Too much news can be overwhelming at this time. Secondly, get your endorphins up by staying active and making sure you get enough sleep at night. How do you get your endorphins up? A walk down your driveway, eating chocolate or chili peppers, meditating or even laughing. Nuchu are good at finding ways to laugh.
Other coping techniques include: Connecting with loved ones and talking with them about how you feel, getting accurate health information from a reputable source and integrate traditional healing and spiritual practices into your routine.
For more coping strategies, check out www.vibrant.org
Citation: Mental Health Disparities: American Indians and Alaskan Natives [Fact sheet]. (2014). Retrieved July 12, 2015, from American Psychiatric Association website: http://www.psychiatry.org/american-indians-alaska-natives
MY3 APP
If you or someone you love suffers from suicide ideations, there is an app called MY3 available for download free of charge from Apple App Store or Google Play. You can create a support system made up of people you feel you would like to talk to when your having thoughts of suicide, you can also build your own safety plan, access important resources, get support at times of greatest risk and you will have access to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24/7 directly from the app.
Remember: there is hope and a life to look forward to, even in your darkest moments. MY3 can help you get through your most difficult times.
Want to help and be a part of the change?
Looking for community members and youth to join the Prevention Coalition tasked to reduce youth substance usage, eliminate mental health stigma and start the discussion around suicide and prevention. Upcoming Prevention Coalition Meeting: Until further notice no meetings are being scheduled. Contact Precious Collins, Native Connections Program Coordinator for more information 970-563-2487.
Upcoming Trainings:
Until further notice no trainings are being scheduled.