Mental Illness Awareness and Suicide Prevention

In Pinellas County, there are thousands of individuals who suffer from a mental health condition. Many of them have never been diagnosed, received treatment, or are even aware there is a problem. Nevertheless, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office is focused on ensuring the safety of these men and women and the individuals around them, as well as reducing stigmas and educating the public about the resources available to help them.
 
Last year, 40 percent of the homeless men and women who stayed in Pinellas Safe Harbor (Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office operated homeless facility) admitted to suffering from a mental illness. In addition, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office responded to 1,246 calls about a suicidal person, and 3,054 calls directly related to an emotionally disturbed person. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide rates have increased in every U.S. state except Nevada, and more than half of the people who die by suicide are not aware they have a mental health condition. 
 
It is important to know that there are steps you can take to recognize the warning signs for suicide and how to help a person who may be thinking about taking his or her own life. First, get involved; second, be prepared for an emergency by knowing who to call, keeping a first aid kit readily available, and knowing CPR; and third, know about the professional resources available for support and treatment. 
 
If you, or someone you know, exhibits any of the following warning signals, take the possibility of suicide seriously. 
 
Warning Signs:
 
• Talking about suicide and death
• Sleeping and eating disturbances
• Drastic changes in behavior
• Social withdraw and isolation
• Self-mutilation
• Drug or alcohol abuse
• Difficulties at work or school
 
Most importantly, be open and sensitive to the person who is suffering from a mental health issue. Talking to people about the problem is a key step to working through the crisis. Counseling, medication, and diet and exercise are all crucial to preventing a suicide attempt or episode resulting from a mental illness. 
 
If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, you can get help immediately by calling the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255. If you or anyone you know is in imminent danger, call 9-1-1. 
 
You can also receive mental health care through Personal Enrichment Through Mental Health Services (PEMHS), which offers emergency screening and crisis intervention, inpatient services for adults and children, and a 24-hour mental health assistance hotline at 727-541-4628. Additionally, Tampa Bay Cares is a local organization that helps individuals find and connect to resources in times of crisis. You can call their hotline at 2-1-1.
 
Remember, mental health and suicide are issues that require your engagement. We are leading the way to a safer Pinellas, and that starts with community awareness and prevention. 
Posted by Thursday, March 7, 2019 11:08:00 AM

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