When Life No Longer Seems Precious

By: Peggy Cunningham, MA, NCC, LPC

It is estimated that over one million people die by suicide worldwide each year - 1.8% of all deaths worldwide are suicides.  Global suicide rates have increased 69% in the last 45 years. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized the significance of suicide and has declared September 10, 2013 as World Suicide Prevention Day.  WHO estimates that for every successful suicide there are twenty additional attempts.  It is estimated that 35,000 suicides occur in the United States each year.

 Suicidal thinking is often the results of a treatable illness.  Mental illness is related to brain chemistry and can be treated.  People suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, and thought disorders often experience suicidal thinking.  These thoughts are accompanied be feeling of sadness, hopelessness, change in appetite, change in sleep patterns, lethargy, decreased interest and ability to do one’s usual daily activities, and loss of interest in pleasurable activities.

Warning signs of one contemplating suicide include:

·         Feeling of hopelessness and despair

·         Someone putting closure to their affairs in preparation for them being gone

·         Rehearsing suicide.  (This includes a discussion about various ways to commit suicide and possible research on the various methods of committing suicide)

·         Drug or alcohol abuse.  This is often an effort to relieve ones internal pain

·         Suddenly feeling better (this is often indication the decision has been made and will soon be executed)

·         Writing wills and giving away possessions also occur

If you or someone you love is contemplating suicide – GET HELP.  Help may include:

·         Inpatient psychiatric hospitalization

·         Medication

·         Talk Therapy

·         Support Groups

Life is precious.  Seek help for yourself or anyone you know who may be contemplating suicide. 

Further resources:

National Suicide Prevention Line: 1-800-273-8255.

http://www.allianceofhope.org/alliance-of-hope-for-suic/welcome.html

http://www.sprc.org/