Suicide Prevention

Suicide is a tragedy that affects tens of thousands of people nationwide every year. It not only affects the victims, but it is also devastating to the family and friends left behind. What is most tragic about suicide is knowing that it can be prevented. Most people who begin to contemplate suicide do so because they are overwhelmed by the natural circumstances of life. They might be suffering from financial distress, a broken relationship, unrealized dreams and goals, or a host of other seemingly insurmountable troubles. They often feel lonely and isolated, believing the only way to stop the pain is by killing themselves.

Suicide prevention is aimed at recognizing the warning signs and intervening before it's to late. If a suicidal person can be reached at the earliest sign of trouble, care and compassion will help carry him through until the pain and suicidal tendencies pass. Sometimes it's enough for the troubled person to know others care and are ready to help.

Experts agree on some common signs to look for in a suicidal person. The first sign is the words a person speaks. Those contemplating suicide often say things that reveal their thoughts. They might mention that life is rotten and there's no reason to keep living; perhaps they will say they are thinking of just "ending it all", or thinking out loud about how nice it would be to be free from this life. Words should be taken seriously, but alone they are not proof that a person is thinking of suicide. Other signs to look include an abnormal withdrawing from others, depression, drastic mood swings from day to day, engaging in careless and reckless behavior, and giving away things of value. Studies indicate that most suicidal people exhibit several of the symptoms, if not all of them.

If someone you know does show these signs, take them seriously. Invest the time to talk with that person, listen to his problems, and be a shoulder to cry on. Oftentimes this show of compassion will go along way. You might also enlist the help of friends and family, possibly referring the troubled friend to a professional. Just don't ignore it. Take some time to show you care; it just may save a life.