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(6 votes, average 3.67 out of 5)

Written by Derek Wood

Monday, 02 February 2009 02:46

Suicide is the 8th leading cause of death in the United States, with over 30,000 Americans dying from it each year. Among those that die, Depression is the leading cause of Suicide. Up to 15% of all Suicide deaths suffer from either Depression or some affective disorder (such as Bipolar Disorder). Be aware that most people don't commit suicide because they want to die. They commit suicide as a way to get away from the constant battle that is their life, and the emotions that they feel will never end.

Helping Someone Who Is Suicidal

Here, we will simply present some of the warning signs of suicide, and what can be done to prevent it.

Warning signs:

Talking about suicide (It is estimated that 80% of those who commit suicide mentioned wanting to commit suicide to a family member or friend)
Has trouble eating or sleeping
Increases their use of alcohol or drugs
Drastic changes in behavior
Withdraws from friends or social activities
Statements about hopelessness, helplessness, or worthlessness
Preoccupation with death
Has attempted suicide before
Takes unnecessary risks
Severe recent losses
Suddenly happier, calmer
Loss of interest in things one cares about such as hobbies, work, or school
Visiting or calling people one cares about
Making arrangements; setting one's affairs in order such as a will and final arrangements
Giving prized possessions away
Loses interest in their personal appearance

Things you can do to help a person who may be suicidal:

Be straightforward; talk openly about suicide; don't skirt the issue
Be willing to listen. Accept their feelings; Express yours; accept theirs
Be non-judgmental; don't debate the right or wrong of suicide
Be available; be involved
Don't dare them to do it
Don't act shocked
Don't be sworn to secrecy; seek support
Offer hope that alternatives are available; don't offer pat reassurance
Take action; Remove any means they may have to commit suicide such as guns or stockpiled pills
Get help from agencies specialized in crisis intervention. Once such phone number is 1-800-SUICIDE

Suggest resources for them to get help:

Community Mental Health Agency
Private Therapist or Counselor
School Counselor or Psychologist
Family Physician
Suicide Prevention or Crisis Center (1-800-SUICIDE for example)

1-800-SUICIDE

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DerekW

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This isn't much help smilies/sad.gif

No matter , February 10, 2010

Healthy living

Time goes by so fast that even I forget to take care of myself properly. It's a growing problem, but hopefully with enough voice people will start appreciating to live longer lives.
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SherwinJTB , April 04, 2010 | url

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isocial , May 26, 2010 | url