Opinion: As we break bread on Thanksgiving, let’s also break the silence around mental health

Authors: Dr. Sarah Geegan and Dr. Amber Billingsley
Special to NKyTribune

Thanksgiving is approaching. It’s a time when many of us will gather with loved ones to eat and reflect on the past year. But for many of us, this time of year can be stressful.

The recent elections have deepened existing divisions, and for some, regardless of political affiliation, the thought of sitting at the same table with relatives with different political views can cause significant anxiety. During a time that is supposed to cultivate community, many people may actually feel more isolated.

Thanksgiving stress as a concept is nothing new. This may come from a variety of non-political sources. Financial burdens, family dynamics, travel plans, and preparing for long-awaited guests can make it difficult to feel grateful every moment.

This year, however, circumstances may increase that concern. For example, evidence from the American Psychological Association shows that election-related stress was more pronounced among American adults in 2024 than in 2020 or 2016.

So while Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude, it should also be a time of unbiased recognition: mental health issues don’t cut along party lines, and isolation can have devastating effects. Most importantly, our loved ones, co-workers, friends or neighbors may be silently struggling for a variety of reasons.

As researchers at the University of Kentucky, we are dedicated to advancing the Commonwealth. Often the most impactful results come when we work both in and with communities. That’s why we’re calling for a community conversation about mental health in Kentucky, especially during this time of heightened stress and potential isolation.

This conversation is necessary, especially when you consider the following facts.

In Kentucky, suicide is the second leading cause of death for people ages 10-34. Over the past seven years, more than 5,300 Kentuckians – an average of 800 per year – have committed suicide.

Each life lost is not only an individual tragedy, but also a result of mourning and trauma for families, friends and entire communities. Research shows that each suicide directly impacts approximately 135 people, meaning hundreds of thousands of Kentuckians have felt the effects of this crisis over the past few years.

These numbers tell the story of need. People in our communities need support, understanding, hope and, above all, meaningful action.

What might such an action look like? It starts with learning to recognize the signs of mental distress and understanding how to start a conversation with someone who you think may have lost hope.

UK Health Care offers free online resources that can help any Kentuckian take these actions.

This is called Ask Questions, Persuade and Recommend (QPR) training. This short, effective program teaches you the skills to recognize someone in difficulty, engage them in conversation, and connect them with resources. Like cardiopulmonary resuscitation for physical crises, QPR offers a simple, practical approach to responding to mental health emergencies. Available free online, QPR training allows each of us to be part of the solution, empowering everyday Kentuckians to support each other.

This training can be accessed at uhealthcare.com/qpr.

We hope this training – and this social conversation – will help address the persistent stigma surrounding mental health in America.

Mental health stigma prevents many people from seeking help; can be especially intense when feelings of anxiety are compounded by the pressure to “keep calm” during the holidays. However, this may be the time when expressing care and empathy can make the most difference.

We often hear that people feel uncomfortable bringing up the topic of depression or suicide, fearing that asking if another person is struggling or even considering suicide may trigger or worsen suicidal thoughts. We have no evidence to suggest that talking about suicide “puts the idea into someone’s head.” In fact, especially in difficult times, expressing concern can be a lifesaver, offering connection and support when someone may feel most alone.

QPR equips us with the right questions and the right words to say to break the isolation.

In addition to QPR, resources such as 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offer 24/7 support to anyone in need, connecting callers with trained professionals who can offer immediate help. But emergency numbers are only part of the solution; The heart of suicide prevention is building a culture of compassion and connection. When each of us strives to stay informed, reach out and support one another, together we create a stronger and safer Kentucky.

We certainly hope that Thanksgiving will bring warmth and respite to all of our fellow Kentuckians. However, the weight of unresolved tensions and personal struggles for some members of our community will make this a difficult season. Instead of running away from this reality, we can take the opportunity to make a difference.

Participating in QPR training is a simple step, but embodies a deep commitment to building a supportive and resilient community. By having this conversation and recognizing when our actions can save lives, we can create something truly worth celebrating. This Thanksgiving, let us be grateful not only for the blessings we enjoy, but also for the opportunity to lift the spirits of those who need us most.

Dr. Sarah A. Geegan, Ph.D.is an assistant professor at the University of Kentucky’s Department of Communication and Information, Department of Integrated Strategic Communication. Dr. Amber L. Billingsley, Ph.D.is an assistant professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Kentucky College of Arts and Sciences in the Clinical Title Series. He also serves as director of the Jesse G. Harris Jr. Center for Psychological Services.