Wellness Suite sidebar
We know that restrictions about gathering with friends and family can be difficult. Now, more than ever, it is important to check in with people in your life who may be struggling. Here are some tips to help you Reach Out during these times of social distancing.
Remember, Stay Social While Social Distancing.
The following tips and ideas are adapted from a variety of national campaigns. For more ideas, you can go to the following websites:
Some warning signs to look for in a virtual environment:
- Changes in tone, language, or frequency of texting, talking, or posting online
- Refusing to answer texts or posts
- Refusing to turn on the camera in Zoom classes or chats. Although there are many reasons why people might not wish to have their camera on, depression might be one. Consider this, along with other warning signs, as you look for changes in behavior.
- The typical warning signs that we look for , even before the pandemic, still apply. Some of the more frequent are:
- Changes in behavior (eating/sleeping more or less)
- Increased substance use
- Increased depression or anxiety, hopelessness
- Mood swings, irritability
How to Reach Out
1. ASK
- This is the MOST important thing you can do. Reach Out. Ask the person how they are feeling and be sure to ask directly about suicide. Let them know you care. Break down the stigma of suicide and mental health by starting the conversation. You can do this virtually or in person. Remember the mnemonic: RU OK?
2. KEEP THEM SAFE
- If you are concerned about their safety, keep them talking – either in person or virtually, while you help connect them to help. If this is a crisis, help them connect to the Suicide Hotline or Textline or call 911. If this is not a crisis, help them connect to the available resources
3. BE THERE
- People who are feeling suicidal can feel isolated. They often believe that no one in their lives cares if they live or die. You can be an important protective factor by simply being there for them. This doesn’t mean you should be their counselor – but it does mean that you can be a consistent voice of caring. Reach Out. Let them know you care about them.
4. HELP THEM CONNECT
- There are many available resources to help. There are supports for people in crisis as well as for individuals who need support to help them through this difficult time of the pandemic.
5. FOLLOW UP
- Reach Out again. Let them know you will follow up. Set up a day and time when you will Reach Out again. Perhaps set up a regular time to connect. Never underestimate the value of showing up.
RESOURCES
If you, or someone you know needs immediate help,
call or text the lifeline:
Columbus: (614) 221-5445
National: 1(800) 273-TALK
Text: 4HOPE to 741741
To learn what resources are available at Ohio State
for non-emergency support, we recommend you download and
se the OSU Wellness APP