Suicide Prevention Month: A Lifeline for Justice-Impacted Individuals and Those in Recovery

Suicide Prevention Month: A Lifeline for Justice-Impacted Individuals and Those in Recovery

September marks Suicide Prevention Month, a critical time to raise awareness about one of the most pressing mental health crises affecting millions worldwide. At Winning Ways, Inc., we recognize that the need for targeted suicide prevention strategies is especially important for justice-impacted individuals and those in recovery. These populations face unique challenges, including trauma, stigma, and a lack of adequate support systems, which can increase the risk of suicide. In honor of Suicide Prevention Month, we’re highlighting the importance of addressing these challenges and the resources we provide to support those in need.

Justice-impacted individuals—those who have been incarcerated or are otherwise involved in the criminal justice system—often experience higher rates of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The stress of re-entering society after incarceration, combined with a lack of social support and economic opportunities, can lead to feelings of hopelessness, which is a major risk factor for suicide.

Those in recovery from substance use disorder face similar struggles. Addiction often stems from untreated trauma, and individuals working through recovery are dealing not only with the physical challenges of sobriety but also with emotional scars from their past. Without adequate mental health support, they can be at a higher risk of suicidal ideation.

A study by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention found that individuals with a history of incarceration are eight times more likely to die by suicide than the general population. Similarly, people in recovery often experience relapse triggers like isolation and shame, which can also heighten suicide risk. It’s clear that for these vulnerable populations, comprehensive suicide prevention strategies are a necessity, not a luxury.

How Winning Ways Is Making a Difference

At Winning Ways, we use lived experience, evidence-based practices, and community-focused approaches to create programs that meet the emotional and psychological needs of justice-impacted individuals and those in recovery. Our team of credible messengers—people who have successfully navigated the criminal justice system or overcome addiction themselves—plays a pivotal role in delivering our services. These mentors bring understanding, empathy, and authenticity to every interaction, fostering trust and connection with program participants.

Here are some of the ways we support suicide prevention:

1. The Winning Circle Series™

Our Winning Circle Series™ offers peer-led group sessions that focus on building self-esteem, managing trauma, and creating strong support networks. These sessions are designed to help participants identify their triggers, develop coping mechanisms, and create a community where they feel seen and heard. By fostering a sense of belonging, we aim to reduce the isolation that often contributes to suicidal ideation.

2. Employment Services Through ‘Elevate Your Employment’

Financial instability is a significant stressor for people re-entering society after incarceration or for those in recovery. Our Elevate Your Employment program helps participants gain the skills and confidence needed to secure and maintain employment. By providing training in job readiness, interview skills, and financial literacy, we aim to alleviate some of the economic pressures that can lead to feelings of hopelessness.

3. Art as Healing: The ‘Spit and Paint’ Initiative

For many individuals, creative expression can be a powerful tool for healing. Our Spit and Paint art initiative provides a safe space for participants to express their emotions and process their trauma through art. Research has shown that art therapy can significantly reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, both of which are risk factors for suicide. By giving our participants an outlet to explore their inner world, we help them build emotional resilience.

Suicide prevention starts with recognizing the warning signs. Common indicators include:

• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
• Withdrawing from friends, family, or social activities
• Engaging in risky or self-destructive behavior
• Increased substance use
• Extreme mood swings or agitation

If you or someone you know is exhibiting these signs, it’s crucial to reach out for help. At Winning Ways, we offer confidential support and connections to local resources. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) and Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741) are available 24/7 to provide immediate assistance.

The Importance of Community in Suicide Prevention

One of the most important aspects of suicide prevention is building a community of support. People who feel connected to others are far less likely to experience suicidal thoughts or attempt suicide. Winning Ways creates these connections by integrating family-based curriculum into our programs, fostering a community where people can grow and heal together. Whether it’s through group sessions, family involvement, or mentoring, we work to ensure that no one has to face their challenges alone.

A Call to Action

As we observe Suicide Prevention Month, it’s important to remember that every conversation, every gesture of support, and every act of kindness can make a difference.

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Citations:

1. American Psychological Association, Mental Health and Justice-Impacted Populations, 2021.
2. National Institute on Drug Abuse, The Connection Between Substance Use and Mental Health, 2022.
3. American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Suicide Risk in Incarcerated Populations, 2020.
4. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Relapse Triggers and Mental Health, 2021.
5. Peer Support Programs, Building Strong Support Networks, 2020.
6. National Reentry Resource Center, Economic Stress and Mental Health After Incarceration, 2021.
7. Winning Ways, Inc., Elevate Your Employment Program Overview, 2023.
8. The Art Therapy Journal, Art Therapy for Trauma Survivors, 2021.
9. Psychology Today, The Healing Power of Art Therapy, 2019.
10. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 24/7 Crisis Support Services, 2023.
11. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Community Support as Suicide Prevention, 2020.