John McFarland Sanchez-Moreno’s Post

We want to talk to you about something important. 9-8-8 is a special number you can call when you're going through a tough time, like a panic attack, really bad depression, or when you're thinking about suicide. It's like having a superhero in your pocket. When a crisis intervention worker answers your call, they'll listen without judging you. They'll ask about your crisis and offer resources that can help you., like counseling services, support groups, or other forms of assistance. All contact with the 9-8-8 lifeline from people seeking help are to be treated as confidential by the 9-8-8 lifeline and its network centers. This means that information about callers, chatters, or texters will not be shared outside of the 9-8-8 lifeline without documented, written or verbal consent from the people seeking help. But, if they think there's an immediate danger, they can send out emergency responders, your safety is their top priority. Remember, though, 9-8-8 is only there when we need help. It's not for when you want to tell someone about your favorite movie, or need help with your homework. Whether you're feeling anxious, sad, or overwhelmed, 9-8-8 is here for you. Let's make a deal, okay? The next time life feels too hard to handle alone, let's call 9-8-8! Because we're in this together, right? Let's rock and roll. You're not alone. #psa #savinglives #988 #choosetoinclude

Are you or someone you know struggling with panic attacks? We're here to help! Our dedicated panic attack service offers compassionate support and effective strategies to manage and overcome anxiety. Don't face it alone—reach out to us today for guidance and relief. 🌈 #MentalHealth #PanicAttackSupport #YouAreNotAlone

Do you need someone to talk to? If you have anxiety, stress, or feel overwhelmed, please know that you can give our Nightlight Crisis Service a call on 01923 256391 📲 We're here from 7pm to 1am every single day, providing a space for you to share your feelings and thoughts that is safe and confidential. Remember, it's more than okay to reach out for help 💚 #CrisisSupport #TalkToUs

Confidential help is always available.

When your friend seems withdrawn and down, you may be worried they’re in crisis. They may even come to you to share that they’re experiencing dark or suicidal throughts. What can you do to help? First, ask them questions; are they thinking of dying, or hurting themselves? Do they have a plan? Listen and validate; don’t ask them to just think different thoughts or cheer up, this is a time to hear and believe your friends. If they let you know they’re experiencing suicidal thoughts but they don’t have a plan to act on them yet, help them reach out and find a therapist, and encourage them to call or text 988 for immediate support. If they have an active plan, help them find emergency support, either by calling 911 or taking them to the emergency room. Stay calm, listen, and take simple steps to connect your friend to support that will keep them safe and help them.

On #WorldSuicidePreventionDay, take the time to learn about what a suicidal crisis can look like and how you can support.

Last week, I had the privilege of participating in Suicide Prevention webinars, and it was a powerful reminder that suicide is preventable—if we work together to remove the stigma. Did you know that 1 in 5 of us will experience suicidal thoughts at some point? It’s a staggering statistic, but it underscores the importance of everyday actions in supporting each other. From conversations with those who’ve faced these challenges, a common theme emerged: having someone truly listen can make all the difference. It’s often the first step toward seeking professional help. Here are a few simple ways we can all make a difference: Reach out – A quick text or call to check in can be more impactful than we realize. Show kindness – Small gestures like offering a coffee, holding the door, or simply smiling can brighten someone’s day. Talk openly – You don’t need to be an expert. Sometimes, just being there for someone and starting a conversation is enough. Let’s take this as an opportunity to connect, show empathy, and support one another. Together, we can create environments—at work and beyond—where everyone feels heard, supported, and valued. #SuicidePrevention #MentalHealthMatters #SupportEachOther #KindnessMatters #WorkplaceWellbeing #Suicide&Co

As mental health practitioners, it’s our duty to champion awareness and support for mental well-being. Today, let’s shine light on stress as a common yet often overlooked aspect of our lives. In this video we highlight the causes, profound effects on both physical and mental health as well as the strategies to manage and overcome stress. Let’s continue this conversation, spreading awareness and fostering a culture of support and understanding around mental health. #MentalHealthAwareness #StressManagement #Selfcare #WellnessJourney

Today is World Suicide Prevention Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about suicide and promoting prevention efforts. It is crucial that we break the stigma surrounding mental illness and make it a priority to support those who may be struggling. One important aspect of suicide prevention is the language we use when discussing suicide. It is important to remember that someone who dies by suicide did not "commit" suicide, as the term can imply a choice. Instead, we should say they "died by suicide". By using more respectful and understanding language, we can help reduce the shame, blame and guilt often associated with suicide. Let us remember that suicide is a complex issue that affects individuals and families in profound ways. It is not a simple choice, but a tragic outcome of mental illness struggles. By promoting understanding and compassion, we can help prevent future tragedies. On this day, let us take action to support those in need and create a world where mental health is a top priority. Reach out to a friend, family member, or colleague who may be struggling. Educate yourself on the warning signs of suicide and how to offer support. Together, we can make a difference and save lives. CAMH CAMH Foundation #WorldSuicidePreventionDay #EndTheStigma #DiedBySuicide #TakeAction

I will never forget the day that made me become more AWARE and OPEN around the topic of suicide. I was sitting in my office working on a report, and suddenly was called to respond to an almost death by suicide by a young woman. So many questions came to me after the initial shock and response. Why? What had gone wrong? How could this be prevented? Although there are more questions than answers, being AWARE and OPEN is a good start. AWARE of help and resources that are available, of opportunities to become more educated around how to deal with this topic either at home or in the workplace, of the conversations that need to be had AT HOME WITH OUR CHILDREN AND OUR YOUTH, of the lack of connection that makes people lonely, of the loss of hope that afflicts some, of the difference an ear can make, of the fact that the stigma attached to it needs to end, and of the unhealed trauma that fosters pain and makes people look for ways to end it.  And being OPEN to START A CONVERSATION, to listen intently and actively, to lend a shoulder, to create a safe space even if uncomfortable. Many lives can be saved AND we have the capacity to do so 🤍 If you or anyone you know is struggling, please know that you are NOT ALONE and reach out. There are ears, resources, and help available. For immediate support in Canada, call or text 9-8-8. This is Canada’s Suicide Crisis Helpline.  #WorldSuicidePreventionDay #MentalHealth #MentalHealthIsHealth #Wellness #Wellbeing #WorkplaceWellbeing