09/10/2024
Su***de is one of the leading causes of preventable death in our nation today. We lose an average of more than 125 young people each week to this tragedy that can be prevented.
Our friends and family can be suffering and we don’t even recognize that they are. Often times, there are no signs, it’s abrupt and unplanned, and there’s no way you could have known.
Most people that are considering su***de give some sign of their intention, verbally, behaviorally, or otherwise.
Here’s some things you can look for to recognize someone is at risk:
-Sudden, abrupt changes in personality
-Expressions of hopelessness and despair
-Declining grades and school performance
-Lack of interest in activities once enjoyed
-Increased irritability and aggressiveness
-Withdrawal from family, friends and relationships
-Lack of hygiene
-Changes in eating and sleeping habits
Here’s some things that you can do to support them:
-Recognize the warning signs⬆️
-Reach out to them & just connect, ask them if they’re ok and how you can support them
-Be direct, ask about su***de
-Assess risk and don’t panic; suicidal thoughts are not always an emergency
-Validate their feelings, be gentle
-Listen and offer Hope
-Help your loved one make a safety plan. Template here: (https://www.mysafetyplan.org/)
Do’s and Dont’s
-Be direct. Talk openly and matter-of-factly about su***de.
-Be willing to listen. Allow expressions of feelings. Accept the feelings.
-Be non-judgmental. Don’t debate whether su***de is right or wrong, or whether feelings are good or bad. -Don’t lecture on the value of life.
° Do not tell them that people who unalive themselves spend an eternity in hell as a scare tactic (if they are Christian)
-Get involved. Become available. Show interest and support
-Don’t dare them to do it.
-Don’t act shocked. This will put distance between you.
-Don’t be sworn to secrecy. Seek support.
-Offer hope that alternatives are available but do not offer glib reassurance.
-Take action. Remove means, like weapons or pills.
-Get help from people or agencies specializing in crisis intervention and su***de prevention.
988 has a lot of good information and guidance
https://988lifeline.org/help-someone-else/
We love you and miss you Michael Newberry
