Too many young people are struggling—and often in silence. In 2023, 40% of high school students experienced persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness, while 20% seriously considered attempting suicide (CDC YRBS). While these numbers are alarming, there is hope. Together, we can make a difference.
Suicide prevention is a community effort. It includes reducing access to lethal means, building healthy coping skills, and increasing connection and hope. We can support this effort by normalizing conversations about mental health, acknowledging that everyone struggles, and strengthening coping skills to ease distress in the moment.
The next time you’re talking about mental health with your students, clients, or family members, try sharing a simple mind-body coping skill that helps you when you feel stressed. This not only settles your own nervous system during a hard conversation, but also equips others with practical strategies they can use when they need them most.
Here are three simple practices you can share:
Slowly swaying or rocking – is a natural movement that lowers your heart rate and quickly soothes the body.
Neurovascular holds – placing your hands lightly on your forehead or holding your head can slow racing thoughts.
Hugging In – crossing your arms and hugging yourself can help you feel safe and self-regulate.
If you’d like to explore more ways to bring mind-body strategies into your community before a crisis occurs, join us on September 19 for our I Am Safe training. Together, we can build safety, resilience, and hope.