by Mark Goode
Picture yourself silently repeating this magic phrase and being shielded by its power, impervious to attempts of others to harm you. Don’t underestimate the power of this force.
Consider getting spiritual guidance in your times of trouble. Religions of all denominations openly welcome visitors. Their mission is to save souls, yours included.
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physical activity
It has been suggested that humans were designed for physical activity. In movement, the body and brain benefit each other. The soldiers in the Water Wars took advantage of this fact, orchestrated by Jack Jennings as they marched for their lives in unison to the cadence and chanting of “We all rise up together.”
Earlier in my life, I was an avid running enthusiast. Once asked why I loved running, I responded that it was my positive health addiction. You can move your body in a number of ways. If you are physically able, play sports. If you are unable to function at that level because of an old injury, illness, or disability such as arthritis or heart and lung problems, many recreational activities are still possible: singing; playing games, cards, or video games; building puzzles; spending time with family and friends; visiting parks; walking outside; and breathing fresh air can be refreshing.
The rhythm and cadence of movement complemented by music while on the trail or in an aerobics class are good for the body and brain. Working out with a friend, trainer, or group helps with accountability and motivation. If you are feeling like skipping today’s workout, remember how much better you feel afterward. The brain “likes” physical activity, particularly movement that involves repetition and laterality.
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music
Music has a unique place in our culture and biology. From the songs of the whales to the complex music of a symphony, the world revolves around sound and music. Permeating every aspect of our lives, from construction workers framing a house to a surgeon fixing a heart valve, the value of music is undisputed. The work stops when the music stops.
The brain can be accessed through the sense of hearing. The networks/functions of the brain can be influenced by the sound and rhythm of music. Music therapists are able to help brain-injured patients walk by strumming a guitar, and some stroke patients can comprehend singing, but not ordinary speech.
Music can be very therapeutic and can complement physical activity to mitigate stress. Having two ears also provides laterality that can be exploited therapeutically.
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The human-animal bond
Best friends to men, women, and children, our pets can be the best part of the day when we come home to their unconditional love. They are great companions and can sense our emotions and comfort us, allowing us to express our need to care for others. Therapy animals can play a valuable role helping in many areas, from seeing and navigating the world when we cannot to easing the stress of PTSD. Remember, animals can smell a single molecule in a sea of trillions and have a remarkable ability to sense our well-being or distress.
These are but a few of the positive behavioral health actions we can use to help endure the challenges of life. The goal is to break the grip of chaos upon us and to reset our lives, and to simultaneously become more aware of the struggles our families, friends, neighbors, and coworkers face to promote a more suicide-resistant culture.
the end
Appendix
Odorless, Tasteless,
Transparent, and Deadly
Suicide is a killer. Victims may not realize they are being stalked. Often no one sees it coming. These are some of the questions and thoughts those left behind think about forever. What happened? What was it going on? How could this have been different? I wish I had been there for you. I didn’t realize you were in trouble. I am sorry I failed you. We never got to say goodbye. It doesn’t have to be this way. We can bring this epidemic killer to justice and stop suicide.
call 911 now. ask for help.
If you are thinking about harming yourself or others, get help now. We all experience problems in our lives beyond our control. When we’re sick or injured, we go to the doctor. If we’re in danger, we could run, seek shelter, or call the paramedics or police for help. Life is full of challenges. Are you having problems coping with something? Like a situation at school, bad grades, someone bullying or harassing you? Perhaps a breakup with a boyfriend or girlfriend or spouse? Are things not going well at work? Are you having problems at home or in the family such as a divorce or illness? Do you suffer from anxiety or depression, or are you unusually tired? Have you lost your appetite? Perhaps you’re having problems sleeping? Drinking too much or experimenting with drugs? Are you struggling with issues of sexuality? Has there been illness or death of someone close?
These are events that happen to normal people that can cause a lot of stress and chaos in our lives.
A lot of times people try to be strong or tough and handle these things alone. However, you may not realize you are in too deep and need help. More people care for you than you may think. These situations can be temporary. Don’t make the mistake of doing something you can’t undo. Your family and friends will end up dealing with devastating consequences that can be avoided.
call 911 now. ask for help.
How can we defend ourselves from an enemy we can’t see? We are not equipped with a warning light alerting us that we are in trouble. Perhaps we can create one by inviting our family and friends to help us create a network of protection. There is no greater demonstration of caring for family and friends than watching out for each other and being keepers of your brothers’ and sisters’ safety and well-being. Friends tell friends things no one else will. For instance, “That’s a bad hairstyle” or “That outfit is not very flattering on you” or “You are making bad choices.” The potential list is long; however, the more people watching out for others, the more likely someone will notice and address a problem in a way that could be lifesaving.
agreement
Statement of Friendship
and Caring
The following is an example of a Caring Contract you may use as a starting point. You could make your own contract specific to your circumstances.
To my family and friends,
I hereby invite and request you to become a member of my personal protection and accountability network. Though I may be blinded to the circumstances or unable to appreciate the consequences of my behavior, I need and want to hear about them. This statement of trust gives you license to call attention to my behavior — things I am doing and things I am failing to do. I may not want to talk about it, but please bring them to my attention. Remind me of this agreement and my promise to listen. Additionally, you have permission to rally others on my behalf despite my protests. I request you do so. If you agree and want to participate, I will do the same for you.
(your signature)
