BE
AWARE OF WARNING SIGNS
There is no typical suicide victim. It happens to young and old, rich and
poor. But fortunately, there are some
common warning signs which, when acted upon, can save lives. Here are some signs to look for:
A suicidal person may: Talk
about committing suicide
Have
trouble eating or sleeping
Experience
drastic changes in behavior
Withdraw
from friends and/or social activities
Lose
interest in hobbies, work, school, etc.
Prepare
for death by making out a will and final arrangements
Give
away prized possessions
Have
attempted suicide before
Take
unnecessary risks
Have
had a recent severe loss
Be
preoccupied with death and dying
Lose
interest in their personal appearance
Increase
their use of alcohol or drugs
What to do: Contact: A community mental health agency
A
private therapist
A
school counselor or psychologist
A
family physician
A
suicide and crisis center
BE
AWARE OF FEELINGS
Nearly everyone at some time in his or her life thinks
about committing suicide. Most decide to
live because they eventually come to the realization that the crisis is
temporary and death isn't. On the other
hand, people haveing a crisis often perceive their dilemma as inescapable and
feel an utter loss of control. These are
some of the feelings and things they experience:
Can't stop the pain
Can't think clearly
Can't make decisions
Can't see any way out
Can't sleep, eat or work
Can't get out of depression
Can't make the sadness go away
Can't see a future without pain
Can't see themselves as
worthwhile
Can't get someone's attention
Can't seem to get control
If this happens, offer help, get help! Please contact a
community mental health agency
Source: American
Association of Suicidology
4201 Connecticut Avenue NW Suite 408, Washington DC 20008 Phone: 202-237-2280 www.suicidology.org and www.iusb.edu/`jmcintos/ for current stats