Suicide Prevention Week

Most suicidal people give warning signs or signals of their intentions. The best way to prevent suicide is to recognize these warning signs and know how to respond if you spot them.

Suicide Warning Signs

• Talking about suicide: Any talk about suicide or about self-harm.
• Seeking Out Lethal Means: Seeking access to guns, pills, knives, etc.
• Preoccupation with Death: Unusual focus on death, dying or violence, including writing poems or stories about death.
• Hopelessness: Helplessness, hopelessness and feelings of "being trapped". Feelings that things will never get better.
• Self-Loathing: Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, shame and self-hatred. Feeling like a burden to others.
• Getting Affairs in Order: Making out a will, giving away prized possessions, making arrangements for a family member.
• Saying Goodbye: Unusual or unexpected visits or calls to family and friends. Saying goodbye to people as though they won't be seen again.
• Withdrawal: Increased social isolation, desire to be left alone.
• Self-Destructive Behavior: Increased alcohol or drug use, reckless driving, unsafe sex.
• Sudden Sense of Calm: A sudden sense of calm and happiness after being extremely depressed may mean that the person has made the decision to commit suicide.

If you believe a friend or family member is suicidal, you can play a role in suicide prevention by pointing out the alternatives, showing that you care, and by getting a doctor or psychologist involved. For more information: www.helpguide.org. Visit our website at www.birdsbororx.com.