Take suicidal talk seriously

Page last updated on July 24, 2017 at 3:42 pm

September 14, 2011

GUEST COLUMN
Take suicidal talk seriously

HeraldTimesOnline.com
September 13, 2011

This guest column is by licensed mental health counselor and private practice therapist Jennifer Myers, co-chair of the Monroe County Suicide Prevention Coalition.

We recently marked National Suicide Prevention Week. Tragically, too many lives have been lost locally to suicide. I encourage everyone to take a few minutes to learn the signs of a suicidal person and what to do to help.

If a person is talking about wanting to die, expressing no will to live, or desiring to kill themselves, take it seriously. Fifty to 75 percent of all suicides give some warning of their intentions to a friend or family member. Pay attention to hopelessness, giving away possessions, and seeking access to means.

If you see any of these signs, whether direct or indirect communication about suicidal thinking, don't be afraid to ask directly if the person is thinking of suicide. They will likely experience relief about being able to really talk to someone who might understand their pain. They may experience a personal connection which can save their life. Other signs that a person may be struggling are: increased drug or alcohol use, purposelessness, anxiety, withdrawal, recklessness, anger, mood changes and feeling trapped.

Once you have asked if a person is thinking of suicide in a direct, nonconfrontational and nonjudgmental manner, connect them with help. Mental Health America of Monroe County recently launched a great website, [www.mha-monroe.com|www.mha-monroe.com], which has a local provider directory. You can also access 24-hour assistance at Bloomington Hospital, Centerstone (812-339-1691), and Meadows Hospital (812-331-8000).

If you are thinking of suicide, please know that there are other ways to ease your pain. You may not be able to see them right now. You can survive suicidal feelings if you do either of two things: Find a way to reduce your pain, or find a way to increase your coping resources. Both are possible. There is hope and things will get better. You are not alone.

Reach out to someone in your life or call 800-273-8255, 24 hours a day, there will always be a person to listen. You'd likely be surprised about how much people care and understand. According to the World Health Organization, one in every four people, or 25 percent of individuals, develops one or more mental disorders at some stage in life. It's time we end the silence, shame and stigma surrounding mental health issues. There is no need to feel embarrassed.

If you would like to learn more about the Monroe County Suicide Prevention coalition, go to [www.bloomington.in.gov/spc] or [www.mha-monroe.com]. You can also email pre-ventsuicidemonroe@gmail.com or check out facebook.com/preventsuicide. There are many free resources at suicidepreventionlifeline.org. Be a person that others can talk to. Have courage and ask the question. It might just save a life.