September is Suicide Prevention Month, a month dedicated to spreading awareness and providing resources to people who struggle with suicidal ideation. Living with obesity and seeking medical weight loss or bariatric surgery often comes with emotional and mental health challenges, including higher risks of depression and suicidality. If you’re struggling with your mental health, read on to learn about some steps you can take.
While obesity does not always correlate with a risk of suicidal ideation and completing suicide, extreme obesity often does, according to several studies. Obesity on its own, however, is often connected to mental health disorders, including depression and anxiety, which can lead to self-harm. The stigma associated with excess weight and the resulting treatment of people with obesity can lead to feelings of overwhelm and hopelessness in these populations.
There’s a fine line between struggling with your mental health and posing a risk to yourself. These are some common signs to look out for that you may need to seek outside help:
Seeking help is hard, especially when you’re in crisis. However, it can be a crucial step in feeling better and getting into a healthier headspace. If you feel like something is wrong, talk to a trusted friend, family member, therapist, or your medical team. When the feeling becomes an immediate concern, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or check yourself into a local hospital. If you’re still feeling restless when you get home, consider asking a friend or family member to stay with you for a while.
One important way to get into a better headspace is to take care of yourself. It doesn’t have to start with bubble baths and daily walks. Take care of the basics first: eat, drink water, sleep and try to make it outside for a few minutes each day. Then, seek comfort in music, movies, games or hobbies you generally enjoy. Whatever you do, avoid isolating yourself. You don’t need to go straight to planning brunch with your besties, but a short, simple text to a friend can help you feel more connected.
Seeking help while in crisis can be difficult, but it may be the best time to start. Use a resource like the Psychology Today website to find a qualified mental health professional who can help you through this. You might also consider asking your doctor for a referral or looking into community counseling resources if finding and hiring a therapist is not financially feasible for you. These feelings are serious, but things can and do get better with support.
Even if it feels like the world is ending, remember: your story isn’t over. You matter to many people, including your care team. Many people have felt this way and recovered after seeking support. Mental health care is just as vital as physical health care. It’s OK to need help and to ask for it. If you’re struggling, please reach out or let someone know. Your life is important, and it will get better.
