Suicide Prevention Month highlights the importance of human connection

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

Human behaviour training company, Social Fluency is drawing attention to the crucial role that human connections play in mental well-being. September marks Suicide Prevention Month, and before the month ends, I wanted to find a way to discuss this extremely important topic in a novel way.

I was thankful when I received an email from Devon O’Brian Ash the founder of Social Fluency. He has been featured on several large podcasts including Art of Charm w/ Jordan Harbinger and Capitalism.com. He has spoken on stages all over the world for MindValley and YPO (Young Presidents Organization) and has taught at: YouTube, Google, Deloitte and he has garnered several million views on his various social media channels.

Something that grabbed my attention when I was researching Devon’s work was his thoughts on intrapersonal relationships. “People act like it’s some kind of badge of honour that they ONLY have deep conversations. If you don’t shift this way of thinking you will be constantly making people feel uncomfortable and disconnected from you. The irony is that in order to have deep relationships, you MUST first have shallow ones.”

When I first read this, I thought of myself; I personally don’t like small talk, but I realize after reading through Devon’s website that small talk can mean so much to an individual, especially an individual who is struggling with loneliness.

Research has shown that loneliness can have a significant impact on mental health. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on society, affecting various aspects of daily life, including mental health and social well-being. Loneliness is one of the many emotional and psychological challenges that was exacerbated during the pandemic. Lockdowns, social distancing measures, and restrictions on gatherings led to increased social isolation. People were unable to see their friends and family for extended periods, leading to a sense of loneliness and disconnectedness.

This has had detrimental effects on the mental health of our community. During the pandemic, individuals who already struggled with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety were at greater risk of experiencing exacerbated symptoms due to increased isolation and loneliness.

Loneliness has long been recognized as a public health concern, and the past few years have seen a surge in feelings of isolation. The pandemic enforced physical distancing and a shift in the way we interact with each other, and these circumstances have underscored the vital importance of maintaining connections and supporting each other’s mental health.

As a society, simple acts of kindness and connection can make a world of difference in someone’s life… and possible death. Devon offered five simple ways we can work together as a community to reverse the damage that has been done by the pandemic.

Create community

Make an effort in your neighbourhood and local shops to strike up conversations and small talk to begin to weave a social fabric around you.

Reach out and listen

Take the time to check in on friends, family, and colleagues. Sometimes just being there to listen can make all the difference. Remember, it’s not about having all the answers but showing that you care.

Be non-judgmental

Approach conversations with an open mind and a non-judgmental attitude. Let others express their feelings without fear of criticism.

Educate yourself

Take the time to educate yourself about the signs of mental distress and the resources available for help. The more informed you are, the better equipped you’ll be to offer support, or guide someone towards professional help.

Practice self-care

Taking care of your own mental health is just as important. Remember to be kind to yourself and seek help if you need it. You can’t pour from an empty cup.

It’s okay to ask for help and it’s okay to offer help. Together, we can create a supportive community and make a difference in the lives of those who are struggling. Let’s use the end of Suicide Prevention Month to strengthen our connections, spread positivity, and create a network of support for one another.

If you are interested, Social Fluency is giving away a free course on how to strike up casual conversations here: https://www.socialfluency.com/smalltalk-exclusive