Suicide Awareness-Ideation Expressions

*TRIGGER WARNING*
This week, 29 years ago, my Dad left a note for my Mom. She was at work when he wrote this and then, in an attempt to end his life, digested two bottles of prescription medication.

Last week I added a post, September is Suicide Prevention Month. This week I want to expand a little bit more, promoting awareness for family and friends, of family and friends, who present signs of suicidal ideation.  As part of my continuing education, I recently attended a webinar with NAADAC (National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors) on Intergenerational Substance Abuse and Suicide (Wilson, 2025). Throughout the remaining of September, I want to share information I’ve gathered.

Gratefully, my Dad’s life was rescued from his suicide attempt, however I never knew his Dad, my grandpa, because of his successful attempt at the young age of 59. MDD(Major Depressive Disorder and SUD (Substance Abuse Disorder) are often cooccurring with patients who seek treatment.  And some do not seek treatment, suffering in silence, however there are some warning terms family and friends may observe.

Suicide Threats: Either Direct or Indirect Statements

People who talk about suicide, threaten suicide or call suicide crisis lines are 30 times more likely than average to kill themselves. Take suicide threats seriously.

“I’d be better off dead.”

“I won’t be bothering you much longer.”

”You’ll be better off without me around.”

“I hate my life.”

“I am going to kill myself.”

Suicide threats are not always verbal, often are communicated via text messages and in social networks, (Jason Foundation, 2016)

Information provided by Geoffrey David Wilson, LCSW, LCADC, CCS, NAADAC Webinar

MDD has not been part of my life experience, but I have made myself aware of its generational tugging. There’s a myriad of help for those who are struggling, so let us be aware of those we love and care for. Resources of help (and relief) are available. There is hope, there is help. Please reach out if you would like to talk.

National Suicide Hotline  9-8-8

Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a Crisis Counselor, Free 24/7 support at your fingertips US and Canada.

For the greater Phoenix area, if you would like additional resources please email, journeytoworth@gmail.com or call 623-252-5971.

What’s the Difference between Coaching and Counseling?

Coaching directs clients’ sessions towards goals and achievement strategies the client desires to obtain. The coach is certified for a specific audience and often follows a list of goals that assists the client with self-observation and perspective tools. It is common for a Certified Coach to plan a Working Agreement during your initial consultation. If you need help setting and achieving goals, improving performance, or developing new skills, coaching might be a good fit.

Counselors and Therapists have formal education and training with specific modalities beneficial to client’s needs. Counseling addresses past issues and emotional healing Your therapist will be licensed with the State Board on which their practice is maintained. During the initial appointment, an Informed Consent is written for the counselor and client to maintain professional and ethical protocol. And a treatment plan is often discussed that includes modality and expectations of counseling sessions. If you’re struggling with emotional issues, past trauma, or mental health concerns, counseling is likely a better option.

Coaching and Counseling fees differ due to the insurance requirements and task level for each practice. Often, coaching fees are scheduled per session or may offered in a “package” that include the number of sessions and provided materials. Counseling fees are billable to insurance offered by the practice or clinic. Independent therapists may offer a sliding scale if the client requests self-pay sessions.

Please email journeytoworth@gmail.com or call 602-252-5971 if you have further questions or would like to chat about which opportunity is best for you.

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