Small offers of support can help avert tragedies

When cases hit the news like that of the Irving mother who allegedly strangled her two children this week, I can’t help but feel overwhelmed at the sense of tragedy.

We can’t know how many lives are impacted by events like this. Family and friends are left wondering what they could have done and what impact the children could have made on this world. Others are left saddened that this could happen to any child or family. And as a week like this strings along where more than one case is reported, such as the one in Waco, it makes me wonder what can be done.

Texas Health Springwood Hospital clinical manager and licensed clinical social worker Ross Teemant says that many simple steps can be taken if you fear for a loved one’s condition.

First, watch for warning signs that someone is experiencing difficulties. This could include, but not be limited to, withdrawing from social situations, acting down or depressed, changes in behavior, or changes in eating patterns and sleep patterns.

If the symptoms appear to be minor, try to engage the person, Teemant says. Offer to go out to lunch or dinner. Ask if you can babysit. Offer to research local avenues for support, such as church groups, support groups for parents of special needs, and other such venues. The offers may seem insignificant to you, but it could be the lifeline the person needs.

If the symptoms are more severe, or seem to be getting worse, contact a health provider or in dire situations 911. Organizations like Texas Health Springwood offer free assessments to determine if a person needs treatment. To schedule an assessment, call 817-355-7771. For more information about treatment options, click here.

Many times individuals think that they’ll be overstepping their bounds, but it’s important to remember that if someone is experiencing depression or other mental health conditions they may not be able to reach out for help themselves.

Jennifer Erickson
Sr. Public Relations Specialist
Texas Health HEB and Texas Health Springwood