We Can All Prevent Suicide
Retrieved March 15, 2020
Understanding the issues concerning suicide and mental
health is an important way to take part in suicide prevention, help others in
crisis, and change the conversation around suicide.
Hope Can Happen
Suicide is not inevitable for anyone. By starting the
conversation, providing support, and directing help to those who need it, we
can prevent suicides and save lives.
We Can All Take Action
Evidence shows that providing support services, talking
about suicide, reducing access to means of self-harm, and following up with
loved ones are just some of the actions we can all take to help others.
Crisis Centers are Critical
By offering immediate counseling to everyone that may need
it, local crisis centers provide invaluable support at critical times and
connect individuals to local services.
Know the Risk Factors
Risk factors are characteristics that make it more likely
that someone will consider, attempt, or die by suicide. They can't cause or
predict a suicide attempt, but they're important to be aware of.
Mental disorders, particularly mood disorders,
schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and certain personality disorders
Alcohol and other substance use disorders
Hopelessness
Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies
History of trauma or abuse
Major physical illnesses
Previous suicide attempt(s)
Family history of suicide
Job or financial loss
Loss of relationship(s)
Easy access to lethal means
Local clusters of suicide
Lack of social support and sense of isolation
Stigma associated with asking for help
Lack of healthcare, especially mental health and substance
abuse treatment
Cultural and religious beliefs, such as the belief that
suicide is a noble resolution of a personal dilemma
Exposure to others who have died by suicide (in real life or
via the media and Internet)
Know the Warning Signs
Some warning signs may help you determine if a loved one is
at risk for suicide, especially if the behavior is new, has increased, or seems
related to a painful event, loss, or change. If you or someone you know exhibits
any of these, seek help by calling the Lifeline.
Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves
Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online,
or buying a gun
Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
Talking about being a burden to others
Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
Sleeping too little or too much
Withdrawing or isolating themselves
Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
Extreme mood swings
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Kevin Dayhoff for Westminster Common Council
Westminster Municipal election May 14, 2019
Authority Caroline Babylon, Treasurer.
Friday, May 1, 2020 by Westminster Fire Department Chaplain
and PIO Kevin Dayhoff
