Key mental health observances remind Floridians to get help they need

For the first time in four decades, overall suicide rates have dropped. That’s the good news. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released an alarming report showing that suicide attempts by teenage girls has jumped by 51% compared with 2019, while the rate increased 4% for teenage boys.

These statistics highlight the need for parents to remain vigilant and watch for early warning signs to get their children help — and for teenagers to communicate openly about their feelings and when they need help.

September is both Suicide Prevention Month and National Recovery Month, and the Florida Association of Managing Entities is encouraging those who need mental health or substance use disorder treatment to take the first step by calling 2-1-1.

For a year and a half now, the pandemic has stressed everyone in ways previously unimaginable — and that includes children and teens. Children have had their daily routines disrupted and grappled with social isolation at a time when socialization is paramount to their development and well-being.

Parents should communicate openly with their children and watch for changes in behavior, including such things as mood swings, impulsive or aggressive behaviors, substance use, or withdrawal in social settings from friends, family or school.

If your child is showing any of these warning signs, it may be time to reach out to a behavioral health care professional for guidance. Florida’s seven managing entities, which oversee more than 300 behavioral health care providers statewide, can help connect uninsured families and individuals with the care they need.

Florida’s behavioral health safety net system serves more than 300,000 of Florida’s uninsured and low-income residents, including children, pregnant mothers, veterans and the homeless. Behavioral health providers help individuals through preventive and intervention services — including mental illness treatment, crisis counseling, substance use disorder treatment and care coordination — to help people lead healthier, more stable lives.

Help is available for those struggling with suicidal ideation, mental illness or a substance use disorder. Reaching out for help can be a difficult step, but behavioral health providers are there to assist on the journey to recovery.

Suicide can be prevented and substance use disorder is treatable. Floridians need to remember that there is hope. Through behavioral health care services, you can lead a healthy and full life.

If you or someone you know needs help, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357), or text HOME to 741741.

Natalie Kelly is the CEO of the Florida Association of Managing Entities.

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