Suicide Prevention

     

    

  In a time such as we are in now, with work never ending, bills to pay and life moving at 100 miles per hour, it is either no surprise the suicide rate is high or a modern mystery of how people have the time to think about the act. In reality, suicide is no new subject. Since before the time of Jesus, historical records have indicated the incidence of suicide. The biggest celebrity of 30 B.C. Egypt, Cleopatra, tragically took her own life when her forces could not defeat an army. One does not have to have the weight of a failed army over their shoulders to be suicidal, however. According to the World Health Organization, nearly one million people lose their lives from suicide every year. That equates to about one death every 40 seconds. One million people is a scary statistic, and it is even more tragic that those deaths were preventable. For everyone one person who succeeds in their suicide, 20 people have attempted suicide. Here, just in the United States, suicide is the 6^th leading cause of death and the 3^rd leading cause for 15 to 24 year olds. With such a large number of people suffering enough to feel the need to end their life, it is natural to want to do something for them. Everyone can become informed with the common signs and symptoms a suicidal person may display and possibly save a life. More often than not, a suicidal person suffers from fairly severe depression, and many of the signs and symptoms of suicide coincide with symptoms of depression.  These include a bad or poor mood that persists, strong pessimism, hopelessness, insomnia, rage not typical to their temperament, desperation, risky behaviors, impulsiveness and increased alcohol and/or drug consumption. Something that is noteworthy to look out for are signs of preparation. This could be giving away possessions, writing a suicide plan, or even purchasing weapons or tools that could kill a person.  Again, it is often hard to know if someone is suicidal or if they are just going through a rough time. However, if there is any chance that you believe they may take their own life, make no hesitations. You will regret your doubt if you are wrong. If you believe a person is at very high risk of killing themselves, do not leave them alone. Be with them at all times until a medical professional can be available. It is acceptable to bring a suicidal person to the nearest emergency room as they can be observed and their depression issues can be treated.  If you have someone who you strongly believe is not so serious of a case, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention suggests you do not say things such as, ‘You have so much to live for,” or arguing down suicide as an option. The best way to confront an individual whom you believe may be suicidal is through direct questions such as, “Are you thinking about ending your life?” “Have you made a suicide plan?” It may seem nerve racking or scary to the individual asking the questions, but a funny thing often happens with the depressed person.  In more cases than not, the unstable person seemingly wanted to be asked the question.  It is as if a private barrier has been lifted and they finally have been granted permission to verbalize their internal pain. However, some do react strongly and deny and repel the seemingly accusatory questions.  It is often worth the risk. For those that realize their own battle and want to seek help, there are numerous resources available. For example, most cities have support groups for depressed people and people who have attempted suicide in the past. There are also many free suicide hotlines in which you can call in and talk to someone anonymously. One of the largest hotlines that is open 24 hours per day is the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK).

            When it comes down to it, life is hard, unfair, infuriating, and the hardest thing you will ever do. However, it is simultaneously the craziest, most beautiful phenomenon. For you to be able to preserve your own life, or keep someone from taking their own is an incredibly heroic feat. Be a super hero. Save a life.

Facts from blog pulled from:

http://www.fijitimes.com/story.aspx?id=182096

http://www.kplctv.com/story/15568620/youth-suicide-prevention-conference-underway

http://www.tribune.com.ng/sun/crime-features/5082-world-suicide-prevention-day-why-suicide-has-been-on-the-increase-clerics

http://www.medicinenet.com/suicide/article.htm

http://www.newstrib.com/articles/news/local/default.asp?article=29663&aname=Suicide+prevention+walk+Sept.+25+at+Baker+Lake