How to Start a Conversation About Mental Health

A new year offers a fresh start and opportunity to develop positive life strategies. But even with the best of intentions, almost all New Year’s resolutions fail by the second week of February. It can be difficult to find the motivation to maintain these personal commitments, especially for those already managing mental health challenges.

Helping a loved one cope with a loss from suicide can be difficult. You might experience a sense of helplessness, worry the subject might trigger distress, or unintentionally say the wrong things. Your desire to provide support is genuine, but you might be unsure about the right actions to take or words to offer.

The COVID-19 pandemic contributed to the youth mental health crisis, but young people’s emotional wellbeing has been declining for years. In the decade leading up to the pandemic, feelings of persistent sadness and hopelessness rose by 40% among high schoolers.