An impactful story during National Suicide Prevention Week
Suicide is now the second leading cause of death for youth between the ages of 15 and 23.
Most often, suicide is the result of manageable mental health disorders that aren’t treated.
At the start of National Suicide Prevention Week, we share Kalyssa’s story to bring awareness to this often stigmatized topic and to illustrate that people can overcome suicidal thoughts with help.
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In July 2018, Kalyssa was rushed to a MultiCare hospital after attempting to take her own life. There, she learned about the MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital Adolescent Behavioral Health Unit (ABHU), Pierce County’s only inpatient program for 13- to 17-year-olds experiencing a mental health crisis.
Treatment at this donor-supported unit is based on the recovery model and trauma-informed care, valuing kindness and empowering teens to play an active role in their recovery.
Realizing she needed help, Kalyssa chose to stay at the ABHU.
“The staff was super helpful and kind,” Kalyssa remembers. “Every nurse I encountered didn’t just do their job at a basic level. They connect with you on a deeper level, and if you need one-on-one time to talk, they do that. They distract you with activities, like coping skills and painting sessions.”
The ABHU was steadfast in helping her find a way forward. Seeing the caring nurses helped inspire Kalyssa’s commitment to staying alive and thriving.
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It’s important that we know how to talk about suicide and access support — for ourselves and our loved ones. If you or someone you know needs help, please visit Navos, Greater Lakes Mental Healthcare and MultiCare Behavioral Health for a list of resources.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached 24/7 by calling 800-273-8255.
You can help youth like Kalyssa find hope and healing with a donation to the ABHU through the MultiCare Behavioral Health Foundation.
