Vail Health 2020

Page 55

INSIDER

MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID How to recognize a mental health crisis and get people the help they need by k aren mason photos by dominique taylor

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ould you know how to help a family member or friend who is considering suicide? What would you do if you noticed cuts on someone’s arms that indicated self-harming? Would you react to a social media post that said something like, “I can’t do this anymore…”? It’s likely that someone needing your help is asking in his or her own way. Are you listening? Do you know what to say or do? Are you afraid to get involved? COVID-19 has created a historic mental health crisis and it’s hitting Coloradoans and people around the world. Even before the pandemic, the Eagle River Valley was labeled as part of a “suicide belt” along with other mountain towns in the western United States. But there is help — not only for those who are suffering, but for those who are not sure how to help. The most important thing to know? We can all saves lives.

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