Q&A: Experts discuss mental health stigma and suicide prevention around the holidays

This article discusses suicide, which may be distressing for some to read. Resources and assistance are available at 988lifeline.org.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Dec. 19, 2024) — The holiday season can be challenging for many. It can induce increased levels of stress, isolation and can heighten existing mental health challenges. Because of this, it is more critical now than ever to raise awareness for mental health, break the stigma and learn what you can do to help.

In a recent conversation with UKNow, Sarah A. Geegan, Ph.D., assistant professor in Integrated Strategic Communication; Lindsey Jasinski, Ph.D., chief administrative officer of UK HealthCare’s Eastern State Hospital; and CC Rhein, an undergraduate student in the College of Communication and Information, answered some questions about mental health resources around the holidays.

UKNow: What are some of the warning signs of suicidal thoughts during the holidays?

Jasinski: Common red flags include:

• Giving away prized possessions.
• Talking about wanting to sleep and not wake up or feeling hopeless.
• Changes in routines or withdrawal from hobbies they once enjoyed.

It’s important to ask direct but supportive questions, like, “Have you ever thought about not wanting to be here?” This can open a vital dialogue.

UKNow: How can people overcome the fear of addressing someone who may need help?

Jasinski: Start simple. For example, say, “I’ve noticed you’ve had a lot going on. Do you want to talk about it?” Initiating a casual, nonjudgmental conversation can pave the way for asking tougher questions and providing support.

UKNow: What is QPR training, and why is it important, especially during the holidays?

Jasinski: QPR stands for Question, Persuade, Refer. It’s a training program that equips individuals with the skills to respond when someone they know may be experiencing a suicidal crisis. It’s available for free online through UK HealthCare and takes about an hour to complete. Participants learn how to ask sensitive questions and provide support to loved ones. The holidays can be a particularly challenging time due to heightened stress and isolation, making awareness and training especially critical.

UKNow: How is this training being promoted across Kentucky?

Geegan: Our goal is to reach every Kentuckian. We’re spreading the word by speaking to local leaders, attending events, and even addressing community organizations like Rotary Clubs. It’s important for everyone to recognize how they can step up and protect their neighbors by being aware of these resources.

UKNow: What role does 988 and the EmPATH unit play in suicide prevention?

Jasinski: The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a free, 24/7 resource connecting individuals to trained professionals who provide immediate support and referrals. In central Kentucky, the UK HealthCare EmPATH unit in Lexington offers a calm, therapeutic alternative to emergency rooms for mental health crises. It connects individuals with treatment, social workers and peer support specialists.

UKNow: What can individuals in rural parts of Kentucky, who may not have access to the EmPATH unit do if they are struggling with their mental health?

Jasinski: For those in rural areas, there are still several options available. Again, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a free and immediate resource available 24/7. Calls to 988 are answered locally, and trained professionals can provide support, guidance and referrals to nearby services. Additionally, many community mental health centers across Kentucky offer crisis-related services. These centers can connect individuals to counseling, therapy and other essential resources.

If someone is in immediate need of help and no mental health facilities are nearby, local emergency departments can provide care and ensure safety in the short term. While emergency rooms may not be an ideal setting for mental health care, they serve as a vital connection point for individuals in crisis.

We are also working to expand EmPATH to other parts of the state. In the meantime, individuals can reach out to local resources and support networks, including clergy, peer support groups, and schools, which may have trained counselors available. The key is to ensure no one feels alone or without options, no matter where they are in Kentucky.

UKNow: Is there still stigma surrounding mental health issues?

Jasinski: Yes, but it’s improving. Public figures sharing their struggles helps reduce stigma and encourages others to seek care. However, mental health care still lags behind other types of health care in terms of equity and access.

UKNow: Why is it crucial for young people to be involved in mental health advocacy?

Rhein: Peers often notice struggles in each other that others, like parents, might miss. Programs like QPR have been lifesaving in my experience, both in high school and college. Starting young helps create a lasting culture of mental health awareness, which is critical for breaking the stigma.

UKNow: Why are the holidays a focus for suicide prevention efforts?

Jasinski: The holidays often bring added stress, disruptions to routines and feelings of isolation. For some, it’s a time of grief or difficult family dynamics, which can exacerbate mental health challenges. Depression is more prevalent during the winter months, making it a crucial time to address these issues.

UKNow: What can social media tell us about mental health?

Geegan: Social media has both positive and negative impacts. While it can provide a platform for sharing resources and stories of hope, it can also detract from time spent on activities beneficial to mental health, like sleep, outdoor time or in-person interactions.

UKNow: How can community members contribute to mental health awareness?

Geegan: This is a community responsibility. Just as we help neighbors in physical crises, like after a natural disaster, we can also support neighbors in mental health crises. Programs like QPR give community members the tools to intervene effectively and save lives.

QPR training is free and available online for all Kentuckians. It takes less than an hour to complete and could help save a life. Take the training today at UKHealthCare.com/QPR.