In these times, many people are experiencing anxiety, fear, frustration, sadness, and loneliness. These feelings, which can sometimes become overwhelming, can intensify and affect mental health, exacerbating pre-existing conditions such as severe anxiety or depression. If you ever feel hopeless or have suicidal thoughts, it's vital to know that there are ways to find help and hope.

Current stressors

 Emotional stress is a constant in many people's lives due to personal, family, or work-related problems. Among the most common factors are:

- Concerns about the health and safety of loved ones.

- Social isolation or the pain of losing a family member.

- Pressure at work, especially for those in essential or at-risk sectors.

Warning signs of suicide

It's crucial to be aware of warning signs, both in yourself and others. These can include:

- Talking about death or expressing a desire not to live.

- To isolate oneself even more than usual.

- Drastic mood swings.

- Increased consumption of alcohol or drugs.

How to get help

In these difficult times, asking for help is essential. Reach out to a close friend, family member, healthcare professional, or counselor. There are suicide prevention and emotional support hotlines you can call.

Life, though challenging, has moments of light and hope. It's important to remember that you're not alone, and that there's always someone willing to listen and help you find a way forward.

Written by Mayo Clinic staff