From: KVC – WV
September is a month that’s dedicated to suicide awareness and prevention. During September and all year long, we aim to raise awareness and help educate people on how to prevent suicide in their area. In West Virginia, suicide is the 10th leading cause of death. To help protect you and those close to you from this tragic health issue, it’s important to understand the warning signs and risk factors of suicide and the ways you can help prevent it.
Warning Signs of Suicide
These warning signs indicate that someone may need help immediately.
- Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself
- Looking for a way to kill oneself
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no purpose
- Talking about feeling trapped or being in unbearable pain
- Talking about being a burden to others
- Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
- Acting anxious, agitated, or reckless
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Withdrawing or feeling isolated
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
- Displaying extreme mood swings
Risk Factors for Suicide
- 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 or chronic illnesses
- Previous suicide attempt
- A family history of suicide
- Recent job or financial loss
- The recent loss of a relationship
- Easy access to lethal means
- Local clusters of suicide
- Lack of social support and sense of isolation
- The stigma associated with asking for help
- Lack of health care, 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)
What You Can Do
Everyone has a role to play in preventing suicide. Increasing the connections among family members and others in your circle of reach can play a major role in preventing suicide, according to the Suicide Prevention Resource Center. Research also shows that people having thoughts of suicide can experience relief when someone simply reaches out to them and inquires about their feelings. Connecting your loved one to a support system, such as a hotline, family member.
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