Did you know that in the United States, one person dies from suicide approximately every 13 minutes, resulting in 40,000 deaths each year? Sept. 7 through 12 is National Suicide Prevention Week and the clinical experts at NurseWise have put together information to bring awareness to the week and support suicide prevention.
Often, those who commit suicide feel hopeless, as if they do not have a reason to live, that they are a burden on their families or society, and that the world may be better off without them. By learning more about the red flags, you can be an active part of interventions that save lives.
5 suicidal warning signs:
1. What they are REALLY saying.
We could all probably be better listeners in general, but when it comes to friends or family considering suicide, listening is crucial. If you’re hearing statements indicating they can’t handle things anymore, they feel trapped, life would be better without them or they’re expressing an interest in death – take heed.
Talking about dying is not a normal reaction to stress, so act calmly, but quickly.
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Although it’s probably time to seek help, you don’t want to upset people displaying these symptoms or make them feel as though they cannot talk to you about how they are feeling.
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2. Big changes in what they used to do.
If you’re noticing bouts of continued sadness, seclusion from friends and family, or decreased interest in activities or social environments, these may all be indicators they are suffering from depression.
They may also show an increase or decrease in their eating or sleeping habits, or their mood may become more aggressive or anxious. This is the time to have a
