Drowning <COMPLETE>

: These states are often compared to being pulled under by an invisible tide—silent, isolating, and exhausting. [5, 31, 7]

: For children, drowning is a leading cause of death, often occurring during "non-swim" times when they weren't even expected to be near the water. [2, 39]

Understanding the reality of drowning is the first step in preventing it. [14] Drowning

: Just as in water, mental health recovery often requires a "life vest"—a support system of friends, therapy, or community that keeps one afloat during the heaviest waves of grief. [7, 5, 11] Safety and Prevention

: It often happens in plain sight, with onlookers—or even family members—unaware of the emergency. A person may simply look like they are treading water while staring blankly at the surface. [35, 10] : These states are often compared to being

: When a person is truly drowning, their body enters a physiological state where they are unable to call for help. The mouth sinks and reappears, barely allowing enough time to gasp for air, let alone shout. [24, 32]

: Look for heads low in the water, glassy or closed eyes, and a vertical body position without a supporting kick. [29, 32] [14] : Just as in water, mental health

Survivors often describe the physical and psychological journey of drowning with vivid, haunting detail. [1, 5]