suicide awarness

education on suicide and suicide prevention must be actively advocated. remember that the suicide prevention hotline is available 24/7 and can be reached @ 800-273-8255 via both call and chat. i hope you take the time to go through this document, where i will be addressing suicidal behaviors and warning signs. there are 120 people DAILY who lose their lives to sucide.

here is some suicidal behaviors, warning signs, and other alarms. please be aware the signs cannot be put into a singular bulleted list.

  • statements such as “i wish i was dead” or “i wish i wasn’t born”
  • buying guns or overstocking on pills
  • withdrawing from society, convincing loved ones to stay away  
  • dynamic mood swings
  • preoccupied by death or violence
  • increased use of alcohol and/or drugs
  • acting self-destructively and riskily
  • giving away belongings randomly
  • saying last goodbyes
  • developing severe personality changes
  • disinterest in maintaining hygiene and/or appearance
  • greatly fluctuating weight
  • distraction
  • insomnia
  • hopelessness
  • considering themselves a burden
  • expressing feelings of worthlessness

if you know someone who is or if you are struggling yourself, do not hesitate to go to a trusted adult, it is not a violation of privacy if someone’s life is at risk. even so, if you want to help someone yourself, here are some steps you can take:

  • assess their risk
  • keep them safe, stay with them, engage in conversation
  • listen without judgement
  • give reassurances
  • encourage support strategies: talking about their past, finding a community, finding a support system

get trained in mental health here: https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/.

here are some websites & phone numbers to call if you need anything more specific to your situation & preference.

  • if you have previously been a victim to sexual assault
  • if you are dealing with emotional or physical stress/damage due to the abuse of harmful substances