Health Experts Promote Suicide Conversations in Check-Ups
Health experts emphasize the importance of initiating conversations about suicide during routine medical check-ups. September marks Suicide Prevention Month, a time when professionals advocate for proactive discussions about mental health. These dialogues can happen outside of traditional therapy settings, including during patients’ visits to their primary care physicians.
Laura Bohan, an integrated health therapist at Sanford Health, highlights the role of trusted medical professionals in encouraging individuals to seek help. “Oftentimes people who maybe wouldn’t have considered therapy in the past feel comfortable because the physician that they trust makes a recommendation,” she noted. This approach can help bridge the gap for those hesitant to engage in mental health discussions.
During check-ups, nurses at Sanford Health conduct screenings that encompass mental health questions alongside more routine inquiries about blood pressure or lab results. This method not only prepares doctors for patient visits but also facilitates an environment conducive to open discussions about mental health.
Dr. Chelsea Traverse, a family medicine physician at Sanford, explained the significance of the established relationships between patients and their primary care providers. “We’re in a unique position to have sometimes a more established relationship with our patients, and so that builds trust, and can increase the honesty of the answers at times,” she said. This trust can be pivotal in identifying those who may be struggling with mental health issues.
Primary care providers are often the first line of defense in recognizing warning signs of mental distress. Dr. Traverse notes, “Primary care, I just think of it as, like, the bottom of the pyramid, like we’re gonna do some of those basics, but then when it’s getting outside of that, we definitely need to refer and get people to the specialists.” This layered approach ensures that patients receive appropriate support and resources tailored to their needs.
Specialists in mental health agree that initiating these conversations early can significantly reduce stigma surrounding mental health issues. Bohan stated, “Make people feel a lot more comfortable and confident in making that first step.” By normalizing discussions about mental health in everyday settings, health experts aim to foster a supportive atmosphere where individuals feel empowered to seek help.
For those in crisis or struggling with suicidal thoughts, immediate support is crucial. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached at 988, and individuals can also contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741. These resources provide vital assistance for individuals in need, reinforcing the importance of open dialogue about mental health.
As awareness grows during Suicide Prevention Month, the call for integrated mental health discussions within primary care continues to resonate. By encouraging these conversations, health professionals aim to save lives and promote a culture of understanding and support for mental wellness.
