Thoughts of Suicide

When the body first becomes sick, it can be mentally, emotionally, and physically draining to the affected individual as the body struggles to regulate itself. This process can be incredibly overwhelming as the patient tries to find the vocabulary to describe what is happening to them. As a result, the individual’s support network and medical care team may find it challenging to approach care and support, thus perpetuating the feelings of isolation and hopelessness on the part of the patient.

Sometimes that hopelessness can lead to feelings that taking your life would be easier than trying to navigate your body, explaining to family and friends, trying to find treatments, and surviving the disease.

When in these moments, it is important to hold on, access resources, and take the pressure off yourself.

If you are feeling hopeless or suicidal, reach out, you do not need to battle this burden alone.

Crisis and Suicide Prevention Resources

(Website descriptions pulled directly from referenced webpages)

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

• Dial 988
• Call 1-800-273-8255
• Visit online: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the United States. We’re committed to improving crisis services and advancing suicide prevention by empowering individuals, advancing professional best practices, and building awareness.

Vibrant

• Call 888-NYCWell (888-692-9355)
• Text “Well” to 65173
• Visit online
  • https://www.vibrant.org/
  • https://safespace.vibrant.org/en/

Formerly the Mental Health Association of New York City (MHA-NYC), Vibrant Emotional Health’s groundbreaking solutions have delivered high quality services and support, when, where and how people need it for over 50 years. Through our state-of-the-art technology-enabled services, community wellness programs, and advocacy and education work, we are building a society in which emotional wellness can be a reality for everyone.

Veterans Crisis Line

• Call: (1-800-273-8255, press #1)
• Text: 838255
• Visit online: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/

The Veterans Crisis Line is a free, confidential resource that’s available to anyone, even if you’re not registered with the VA or enrolled in VA health care. The caring, qualified responders at the Veterans Crisis Line are specially trained and experienced in helping Veterans of all ages and circumstances.

Warm Line (not for crisis, but when you need a listening ear)

• Call: 833-773-2588

Talk to a peer specialist who has been through mental illness, substance abuse, or their own personal struggles and has been trained. If you need to talk to someone but are not in crisis, you can call the warm line for support. It is free for all callers.

MyStrength- a free online tool that will help you live your best life.

• Visit: https://web-ui.mystrength.livongo.com/go/udhs/utahdhs

You will find help for stress, anxiety, chronic pain and more. It is safe, secure and personalized for you. Track your health, enjoy activities, and become inspired.

Bateman Horne Center

Support Groups

• Visit: https://batemanhornecenter.org/events/

Every month on the second and third Tuesdays from 1-2 pm (Mountain Time) the Bateman Horne Center and a licensed clinical social worker hold support group sessions open to anyone living with a debilitating chronic illness.

Crisis Resources Page

• Visit: https://batemanhornecenter.org/outreach/crisis-resources/

The emotional and mental impact of living with chronic illness can leave individuals feeling desperate for relief. The resources on this page intend to connect you with immediate support and living resources.

Please remember that your chronic illness does not define you, and you are not alone.