DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — Laurel Oaks Behavioral Health Center is encouraging people across the Wiregrass to recognize warning signs, check on those who may be struggling and help connect them with support during Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.
According to Laurel Oaks Behavioral Health Center CEO Jeanette Jackson, suicide prevention cannot be left only to trained health care professionals. She said prevention begins in homes, schools, workplaces and communities.
“As a leader of a behavioral health organization, I see every day that reaching someone in a moment of crisis can be the beginning of a different path forward,” Jackson said. “But suicide prevention needs to happen not only with trained healthcare providers inside a hospital, outpatient center or during a virtual appointment. It starts in our homes, schools, workplaces and communities with resources, compassion and a willingness to ask how someone is really doing — and listen.”
Jackson pointed to warning signs that someone may be struggling, including changes in behavior, withdrawing from others, increased substance use, extreme mood changes, feelings of hopelessness or talking about being a burden.
“We don’t need to be mental health experts to notice a change or to say, ‘I’m concerned about you. How can I help?’” Jackson said.
Laurel Oaks said behavioral health care can range from outpatient therapy and intensive programs to inpatient treatment for people who need a higher level of support. The goal is to connect people with appropriate care and resources before a crisis occurs.
The Dothan behavioral health center cares for thousands of patients each year, according to Jackson, but she said health care providers cannot address suicide prevention alone.
“Suicide prevention is a community responsibility,” Jackson said. “It means checking in on the person who seems different lately. It means taking concerns seriously rather than dismissing them. It means reducing the stigma that can make asking for help feel like a sign of weakness. And it means ensuring people know that support is available and recovery is possible.”
Anyone experiencing a mental health or suicide crisis, or concerned about someone else, can call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Veterans can call 988 and press 1 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line.
“This month, let’s do more than raise awareness. Let’s start conversations. Let’s listen. Let’s connect people to support and care. Let’s provide hope,” Jackson said.
“Because sometimes, one conversation can be the moment someone realizes they don’t have to face what they’re going through alone.”
