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One thing that is sadly true about suicide is that it knows no age boundaries.
Over the past few years we have all been saddened by suicide deaths of
you persons. There is always the comment made, "Gone way too soon."
We have also heard about the young adult or the adult approaching middle
age who decided to end their lives.
And just this week a noted author took the assisted suicide route that is
legal in his country.
All sad and no matter what the age they are all gone too soon.
This is suicide prevention week and the local organizers are doing well in
calling attention to the devastation of suicide. There is an event planned this
Friday at Harris Park in Dodgeville from 6 to 9 p.m. and it includes a memorial
walk. Because suicide affects everyone, either by loss of someone you
know or who someone close to you knows the event is worth supporting.
It has been said those who commit suicide do not want to end their life.
They want to end their pain.
A person in acute risk for suicidal behavior most often will show (Warning
Signs of Acute Risk:)
Threatening to hurt or kill him or herself, or talking of wanting to hurt or
kill him/herself; and or,
Looking for ways to kill him/herself by seeking access to firearms, available
pills, or other means; and/or,
Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide, when these actions are out
of the ordinary.
Expanded Warning Signs:
- Increased substance (alcohol or drug) use
- No reason for living; no sense of purpose in life
- Anxiety, agitation, unable to sleep or sleeping all of the time
- Feeling trapped - like there's no way out
- Hopelessness
- Withdrawal from friends, family and society
- Rage, uncontrolled anger, seeking revenge
- Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities, seemingly without thinking
- Dramatic mood changes
If you notice any of these warning signs get the person showing them help.
Help end the pain.