Suicide & Self Harm Prevention
Life can be incredibly challenging, and at times, it may feel like the weight of the world is too much to bear. If you or someone you know is grappling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, it's crucial to remember that help is available, and reaching out can make all the difference.
The 988 Lifeline is available for everyone, is free, and confidential: https://988lifeline.org/talk-to-someone-now/
Houston Crisis Hotline: https://www.crisishotline.org/
A safety plan is a prioritized list of coping strategies and sources of support. It can help you to identify what leads to your thoughts of suicide, and how to feel better when you are having these thoughts. As a result, you can help yourself to stay safe: https://www.mysafetyplan.org/
Self Care Ideas from Lifeline.org:
Take a walk outside
Write a love letter to yourself
Write about something you are grateful for in your life (it can be a person, place, or thing)
Create a happy playlist and a coping playlist
Treat yourself to a favorite snack
Watch your favorite movie
Forgive someone
Forgive yourself
Say thank you to someone who has helped you recently
Create a DIY self-care kit of things that make you feel better
Take your medication on time
Take a new fitness class at the gym (yoga, Zumba, etc.)
Plan a lunch date with someone you haven’t seen in a while
Pamper yourself with an at-home spa day
Take a day off from social media and the Internet
Reach out to your support system
Cuddle with your pets or a friend’s pet
Take the time to stop, stand and stretch for 2 minutes
Wake up a little earlier and enjoy your a morning cup of tea or coffee before the morning rush
Take a hot shower or bath
Take yourself out to dinner
Volunteer
Start that one project you’ve been contemplating for a while
Sit with your emotions, and allow yourself to feel and accept them. It’s okay to laugh, cry, just feel whatever you’re feeling with no apologies!
Cook a favorite meal from scratch
Take a 5-minute break in your day
Compliment someone (and yourself, too!)
Give yourself permission to say no
De-clutter your mind: write down 5 things that are bothering you, and then literally throw them away
Donate 3 pieces of clothing that you no longer wear
Take the time to find 5 beautiful things during your daily routine
Take a mental health day from school, work, etc.
Take a nap
Reach out to the Lifeline
