Today's blog isn't something pleasant to talk about. It's Not funny, Cool, or Hip. It's not going to go Viral or end up on the Ellen show or TMZ, unless a celebrity is involved.
What it is, however, is something that is very Sad, Lonely, Heartbreaking, and happens on a daily basis....
Suicide!
Following are some shocking facts from the Center for Disease Control.
Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death for 15 to 24 year old Americans.
Suicide is the 4th leading cause of death for adults ages 18-65.
There is one death by suicide every 12.3 minutes in the United States.
Men represent 79% of suicide deaths in America even though women attempt suicide 3x's as often as men.
Military veterans commit suicide at a rate of 22 deaths daily.
Firearms are the most common method of suicide in men.
There are over 800,000 suicides worldwide every year. Which means every 40 seconds someone dies from suicide.
Depression is the leading cause of death
I recently had a friend pass away from suicide. Needless to say, I was in shock as was most of her friends and family. I saw her routinely and she was always very positive, upbeat, happy, and loving life.... or so I thought.
How do you know the signs? How can you tell when someone is depressed or going through difficult times when they appear to be so happy with life?
In researching to find answers to my own questions, I found the following information.
Warning Signs of Suicide
These signs may mean someone is at risk for suicide. Risk is greater if a behavior is new or has increased and if it seems related to a painful event, loss or change.
Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself.
Looking for a way to kill oneself, such as searching online or buying a gun.
Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.
Talking about being a burden to others.
Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.
Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly.
Sleeping too little or too much.
Withdrawn or feeling isolated.
Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.
Displaying extreme mood swings.
Additional Warning Signs of Suicide
Preoccupation with death.
Suddenly happier, calmer.
Loss of interest in things one cares about.
Visiting or calling people to say goodbye.
Making arrangements; setting one's affairs in order.
Giving things away, such as prized possessions.
We are so wrapped up in our daily lives we tend to ignore the other people around us. We ask them questions and hear their response, but do we actually SEE them, OBSERVE their mood, LISTEN to what they are truly saying, and HEAR the tone of their voice. If you think you know of someone who needs help, or if YOU are in need of help, please reach out!
Suicide is NOT the Answer!
PLEASE CALL 800-273-8255