Suicide Prevention During the Pandemic

Jackson, TN. (WNBJ)-

Suicide is a growing concern, and it affects people of all ages, demographics, and social classes. This past week it was announced former Miss USA Cheslie Kryst passed away at the age of 30 due to suicide. During the pandemic suicide rates amongst ages 10-35 increased by %20. Kelsey Wynn-Taylor (HEALTH CONNECT AMERICA THERAPIST) stated, “We didn’t have that personal interaction time that we need with people on a daily.”

It is hard to recognize warning signs of suicide, unless you know what they are and are consciously on the lookout for them. Kelsey Wynn-Taylor therapist at Health Connect America shared some warning signs you should look out for. Kelsey Wynn-Taylor (HEALTH CONNECT AMERICA THERAPIST) informed us, “With people saying, hey I want to kill myself, or hey I don’t want to be alive. Those making suicidal gestures. Asking questions like hey how would you feel if I wasn’t alive anymore. There emotional state has drastically changed. They’re normally bubbly, happy, excited. Now they are very low—in a low state. Giving away possessions. Not your usual spring cleaning, like hey I’m making some room in my house, but giving away prized possessions.”

Some resources here in the Madison County area that can be utilized for anyone battling with suicidal thoughts, or mental illness are: Kelsey Wynn-Taylor (HEALTH CONNECT AMERICA THERAPIST) told 39 news, “Health Connect America is place that you can even walk in and say, hey I’m needing services, Pathways. They have their mental health area then they also have a crisis triage. The Grove, that’s a mental health office. There’s even impatient hospitals.”

If you or someone you know is battling with suicidal thoughts, please utilize the resources shared, or contact the national suicide hotline at 800-273-8255.

Makayla Davis

mdavis@nbc39tv.com