Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that in 2018, suicide was the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. On average, 132 people died by suicide every day that same year.

As we all know, we are living in unprecedented times. Among the lack of clarity the current situation brings, the impact on nationwide suicide statistics is also clouded. People are juggling increased responsibilities, financial despair and isolation from loved ones and friends.

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Fortunately, we know how these factors can impact us mentally and can take action. Many of us are left feeling anxious, overwhelmed, lonely, and desperate for everyday life to return to "normal." People with existing mental health conditions may experience an increase in symptoms while others may be feeling mental health symptoms for the first time.

Those who are experiencing extreme distress will benefit from engagement in mental health treatment; trained mental health professionals can promote the healing needed from the scars of the pandemic.

If you find yourself struggling with the pandemic response but arent ready to contact a professional for help, there are many options you can use to support yourself and your loved ones. Staying active, eating healthy foods, getting enough sleep, limiting substance use, limiting media consumption, and spending time with others (virtually or following safety guidelines) all support mental wellness.

If you or someone you know is feeling hopeless and having thoughts about suicide, please call any of the following resources: the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255 [press "1" to reach the Veterans Crisis Line]), the Crisis Text Line (text "home" to 741-741), or The Trevor Project Lifeline (1-866-488-7386- a 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention lifeline for LGBTQ+ people under 25). For ways to cope, visit the Lifeline website at suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

Youth are impacted by all of this as well. Connecticut offers Mobile Crisis Intervention Services (MCIS) to children statewide. Mobile Crisis can go to the youth in the community to assess for risk, safety planning and connect the youth to any necessary treatment and resources. Mobile Crisis services can be accessed by calling 211, pressing 1 to indicate a crisis, and pressing 1 again. If a person is potentially in imminent danger, call 911.

While these may be unprecedented times, we are all in this together and by finding ways to connect, we will surely find our "new normal."

Emily Morse is Mobile Crisis Program manager at UCFS Healthcare.

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Healthy Living: Suicide prevention is of increased importance in these stressful times - Norwich Bulletin