Suicide Prevention: You Matter

Have you or someone you know lost a loved one to suicide? While it is not an easy topic to discuss, suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the world, especially among young people. Every year, nearly one million people worldwide die by suicide, or one death by suicide every 40 seconds.

More than 90 percent of people who die by suicide have depression or another diagnosable mental disorder. Many times, they have a substance abuse problem. It is important to learn and recognize the warning signs. The majority tell someone first, so never take threats of suicide lightly.

Warning signs that someone may be thinking about or planning suicide:
• Talking or thinking about death.
• Depression—deep sadness, loss of interest, trouble sleeping and eating—that gets worse.
• Having a “death wish,” tempting fate by taking risks that could lead to death, such as driving fast or running red lights.
• Losing interest in things one used to care about.
• Making comments about being hopeless, helpless or worthless.
• Saying things like, “It would be better if I wasn’t here,” or, “I want out.”
• Talking about killing themselves.

In support of World Suicide Prevention Day on Sept. 10, please encourage anyone who might be experiencing signs of depression or tendencies toward suicide to get help. If there is an immediate risk, call 911. If they are willing to seek help, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255).

Go to MemorialBehavioralHealth.org to take an anonymous, free mental health self-assessment. After you complete the assessment, you’ll receive immediate, customized feedback as well as the opportunity to schedule an appointment for further evaluation if necessary.