Posts Tagged ‘MentalIllness’
Suicide Prevention Month
September 1, 2020
September is Suicide Prevention Month and we at Foundations Family Therapy want to be part of the solution to end the stigma of suicidal thoughts and help everyone know the signs that someone you love could be experiencing suicidal thoughts.
The first thing to note is there are different tiers of suicidal behavior. The first is suicidal ideation. This can range from thoughts of “I don’t want to do anything” to “hurt or kill myself” but sometimes “I wish I could just not wake up” to contemplating suicide on a regular basis.
The next step is suicidal plans. This could be someone who has moved from the desire to be dead into making a plan of how they would kill themselves.
Lastly, suicide attempts are the last stage of suicidal behavior. This is someone who has moved from thinking, to planning, to taking action and is the most serious.
Many people who experience suicidal thoughts have some common signs. These include talking about death or suicide, feelings of hopelessness, withdrawing from friends and family, verbalizing that they are a burden to others, losing interest in activities they used to enjoy, extreme mood swings, giving away possessions, or saying goodbye to people they care about.
Don’t be afraid to ask your child or someone you care about if they are experiencing suicidal thoughts. You are not going to “give them the idea” if they are already having these thoughts. Many times, people want someone to ask and acknowledge how they are feeling and will tell you honestly.
If you or someone you love is experiencing suicidal thoughts, don’t wait, act. If they verbalize a suicide plan or have attempted suicide, please call 911 immediately or take them to your local hospital.
If they are voicing suicidal ideation without plans or means, please reach out to a licensed mental health provider about getting them help or reach out to their doctor immediately. You are not alone and there is help available.
*The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255)*
What Is Faith-Based Therapy?
August 9, 2018
Unlike traditional forms of therapy, faith-based counselors combine theology and spirituality with modern behavior science. Faith-based counselors help people with the same problems as do traditional counselors like anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. This unique approach to therapy is perfect for someone who relies on faith as a pillar of their wellbeing. Faith, religion and spirituality are complex in nature.
One of the goals of faith-based therapy is to integrate one’s faith into their treatment. The foundation of this type of therapy is built on respect and support.
Remember, it’s common to feel alone in your struggles, to have doubts, and questions. It can be hard to reconcile thoughts, behaviors and choices with faith beliefs. You might be troubled by tough times in life and start to question elements of your faith.
No matter what you are facing, we’re here to walk with you on the journey of faith and healing.
As with many of our services at Foundations Family Therapy, we treat our faith-based patients with a holistic approach. It’s a way for faith and modern science to combine and treat the person as a whole.
Our faith-based counselors are committed to respect and understanding no matter what your beliefs. Your faith and faith resources are an important part of your life even during times of struggle. We can help you navigate the journey in the context of your faith by developing a deeper understanding of grace and healing.
Mental Health and Substance Use
August 1, 2018
Substance abuse, drug overdoses and celebrity suicides seem to be common news headlines these days. It’s so heartbreaking reading about these tragedies knowing that help, hope and healing exist. Perhaps there is some light that comes from such darkness. These tragedies help put the spotlight on mental health, substance abuse and the stigma associated with getting help.
The relationship between mental illness and substance abuse is very strong. In fact, The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA) reported that, of these people struggling with dual disorders, the majority—55.8%— don’t receive any treatment for either disorder. A mere 7.4% get treatment for both issues. It’s time to end the stigma surrounding mental illness.
Self medicating with drugs and alcohol can lead to further depression, anxiety, and paranoia amongst other conditions. People who have high risk factors like genetics and childhood trauma are sometimes pushed into substance abuse to no fault of their own.
The vicious cycle of addiction, abuse, and self-medication will lead to a downward spiral that often effects all aspects of one’s life. At Foundations Family Therapy, we can help you or a loved one learn to gain freedom from your struggles. Our hope-focused therapists are here to help walk with you in a judgement-free, healing environment. Shannon Haney-Jenkins works with adults, couples and families who are struggling with substance use, medical diagnosis or past trauma.
If you struggle with alcohol or other substances, and it’s interfering with your life, call us. We’re here for you!