September is Suicide Awareness Month, mental health professionals share experiences

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – September is Suicide Awareness Month. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention states that suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S.

According to the Kentucky Hospital Association, the Bluegrass State has been under a mental health crisis for over a decade. 

In early April, Gov. Andy Beshear signed House Bills 169 and 178, allowing insurance coverage for those with mental health conditions or eating disorders. 

The National Alliance on Mental Illness reports that ages 18-29 report nine times higher to make calls to 9-8-8 than those 65 and older and that includes college students.

“College students are very much struggling with mental health issues. It’s been increasing since post COVID,” said Professor Jay Gabbard, who teaches social work at Western Kentucky University.

He too had his own fair share of mental health issues at those age ranges. 

“When I was in my early 20s, I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and panic disorder and actually, made a suicide attempt,” Gabbard said. 

He said after his attempt, he saw a different pathway in life to help others out of the darkness he once experienced.

“Surviving that and receiving and going into mental health recovery, taking medicine, seeing a therapist, going to support groups, that’s actually what got me interested in doing social work for a career,” he said.

His message is that you are not alone. You are wanted, loved and needed in this world and that when the rainy days come, just know that the water was worth it.

Gabbard said, “I’m what they call a wounded healer. I’m somebody that is a mental health professional and educator, but who also is a mental health consumer. Somebody who has to go for counseling and meds for my own mental health recovery.”

Because when it rains, flowers bloom.

If you or someone you know may be experiencing a mental health crisis, you are urged to call 9-8-8 or emergency services for help.