Suicide Prevention

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Photo Credit: (c) 2016 Linda M Rhinehart Neas
A New Day

 In the past 48 hours, I have read of 2 suicides, an attempted suicide and multiple post on suicide prevention and hotlines.  (1-800-273-8255) Those who are suicidal feel alone and desperate. They have lost all sense of hope. However, those around them can help.

There are several common assumptions about suicide. Learn the facts. Here are a few:

  • Assumption - People assume that suicide happens suddenly with no warning; however, (FACT)hindsight has taught us that most people either blatantly or subtly give warning of their hopelessness.
  • Assumption - Thanksgiving and Christmas are when most suicides occur. (FACT) Actually, more suicides occur in the spring season. 
  • Assumption - Most suicides are by people of minority groups and lower socioeconomic classes. (FACT) Don't fool yourself, suicide can be found in every culture, subculture, race, religion, and socioeconomic class. 
There are many risk factors in suicides.  Learn them. Among the most common are:

  • Family history of suicide
  • Family history of abuse (child abuse, substance abuse, domestic violence, etc.)
  • Loss (deaths, loss of job, financial loss, relationship issues, etc.)
There are warning signs. Learn them.  Among them are:

  • Talking about hurting or harming one's self
  • Withdrawing from socialization or feeling isolated
  • Talking about being a burden to others
Remember - Suicide is not about one person taking their life. When someone commits suicide they leave behind survivors, who are hurt beyond measure. Learn what to say, what to do and what resources there are for suicide-loss survivors.

Leaving the Hall Light On by Madeline Sharples  is one resource that I can highly recommend.  A mother's memoir, it is beautifully written from the heart and soul of a survivor.
May all who suffer from hopelessness find a glimmer of Light. May they be lifted up by tenderness and compassion. May they heal from the wounds that have been open too long. May they be wrapped in unconditional Love, and may all who love them be at peace.

Blessings, dear ones.

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