Suicide is a scary topic, but it is reality. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for college-age youth and ages 12-18. More teenagers and young adults die from suicide than cancer, heart disease, AIDS, birth defects, stroke, pneumonia, influenza, and chronic lung disease, combined. Everyday in the United States, over 3,470 teenagers (grades 9-12) attempt to commit suicide. Four out of five teens who have committed suicide have given clear warning signs. Now you may be asking yourself, "What are the warning signs?" or "How can I help prevent suicide?". Here is a list of the warning signs and what to do.
Suicide Warning Signs:
•Talking about wanting to die or kill oneself.
•Looking for a way to kill oneself, such as searching online or buying a gun.
•Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
•Talking about being trapped or in unbearable pain.
•Talking about being a burden to others.
•Increasing the use of alcohol and/or drugs.
•Acting anxious or agitated; being recklessly.
•Sleeping too little or too much (7-9 hours is the recommended amount of sleep).
•Withdrawing or feeling isolated.
•Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.
•Displaying extreme mood swings.
•Suddenly happier and calmer, especially after a period of sadness.
•Giving away prized possessions.
•Getting affairs in order, making arrangements.
What to Do:
•Take it seriously. Act NOW.
•Tell the person why you are concerned.
•Don't be afraid to ask if he/she is suicidal.
•Do not try to argue someone out of suicide.
•Encourage the person to seek professional help immediately.
•If it is a crisis, don't leave him/her alone.
•Remove firearms, medications, and other objects that could be used in an attempt.
•Take the person to the emergency room or call 9-1-1
•Encourage and support them after the crisis.
The person may hate you for stopping them, but they will later thank you. Someone being upset with you is a lot better than someone losing their life.
There is Hope.
If you or someone you know is feeling hopeless, alone, or eve suicidal, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) (Press 1 for Veterans). Your call will be directed to a local crisis center where a trained counselor will answer. All calls are free, confidential, and always available.
Help a loved one, a friend, or yourself, because with help comes hope.
To learn more about suicide, find out ways you can help, need help, or want to read stories about hope and recovery, visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
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