By: Chris Bovia

The Surgeon General declared loneliness an epidemic earlier this year, following the isolating events of the global pandemic.

Priority Health says it’s one of the strongest predictors of suicidal ideation and attempts.

With more than 1 in 5 adults and over 1 in 3 young adults living with mental health issues in the US, it’s more important than ever to offer connection to those struggling— often in silence.

A person struggling or experiencing a mental health crisis may seem withdrawn, become aggressive, experience mood swings, or stop participating in activities they once enjoyed.

They may even push back against social interactions, but it’s important to keep reaching out.

Social interactions add to the coding of your brain and impact everything from confidence and anxiety to your risk for common health issues— but it's definitely one of those things where quality is more important than quantity, though. Deeper connections are more beneficial because they create a positive outlook and improve health.

#James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleFind out more about the work I do on my 501c3 non-profit foundationwebsite www.yourgiftoflife.org Order your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife: From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

Link for 40 Habits Signupbit.ly/40HabitsofMentalHealth

www.celebratingyourgiftoflife.com

How to help someone in crisisAct quicklyReach out and keep reaching outBe patient, but honest about your concernsDon’t shy away from asking direct questions like “do you plan to kill or hurt yourself?”Express supportCall 988 for support and adviceCall 911 if you feel someone might be in danger of committing suicide.

If you or a loved one are struggling with loneliness or other mental health issues, reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for help.

You are not alone.

Priority Health members also have access to myStrength, a self-help virtual tool featuring a section specific to thoughts of suicide, self-care, and coping skills critical to build up your mental well-being.
https://standingabovethecrowd.com/septemberisnationalsuicidepreventionmonth-social-interactions-are-essential-to-mental-health-and-suicide-prevention/