Summer Safety Includes Mental Health
Date: 05/22/26
Baton Rouge, LA
While summer is often associated with vacations, sunshine, and time with family and friends, mental health experts say it is also a time to remain vigilant about emotional wellness and suicide prevention.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide rates are often higher during the summer months than during the winter, contrary to popular belief. In response, Louisiana Healthcare Connections is encouraging Louisiana residents to check on loved ones and recognize warning signs that someone may be struggling with mental health challenges.
“Summer safety is about more than sunscreen and staying hydrated,” said Dr. Dana Lawson, Senior Vice President of Population Health and Clinical Operations at Louisiana Healthcare Connections. “It is also a time to pay close attention to mental health and emotional well-being. Many people may be silently struggling, and recognizing the warning signs and reaching out with support can make a life-saving difference.”
Louisiana Healthcare Connections encourages residents to be aware of warning signs that may indicate someone is experiencing suicidal thoughts or emotional distress, including:
- Depression or feelings of hopelessness
- Threatening to hurt oneself
- Talking or writing about death, dying, or suicide in ways that are unusual for the person
- Acting recklessly or engaging in risky behavior
- Feeling trapped or believing there is no way out
- Increased drug or alcohol use
- Dramatic mood changes
- Withdrawing from friends, family, and social activities
- Anxiety, agitation, or major changes in sleeping patterns
Help is available through the Louisiana Department of Health by calling or texting 988 or visiting Louisiana 988 Crisis Support, www.Louisiana988.org, for online chat and additional resources.
Dr. Lawson also emphasized the importance of continued care following a mental health crisis.
“After a crisis event, such as an Emergency Room visit, ongoing follow-up care with a physician, counselor, or therapist is critical,” Dr. Lawson said. “Mental health recovery is a journey, and no one should have to navigate it alone.”
For more information about behavioral health resources and services available through Louisiana Healthcare Connections, visit their website or speak with a healthcare provider.
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About Louisiana Healthcare Connections
A Medicaid health plan serving the Louisiana Department of Health, Louisiana Healthcare Connections was launched in 2012 to provide the best benefits and programs possible to improve the overall health of the families and communities we serve. We are a company of Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC), focused on identifying and removing barriers to good health with sustainable solutions that help improve health outcomes. Through a family of engaged employees, dedicated providers and community partners, we deliver care for the health of all with Medicaid Made Personal. For more information, visit their site.