World Suicide Prevention Day
By: Maia Price
You are never alone
If you or anyone you know is in crisis, call 988 for help.
“Every 45 seconds someone takes their life;” (www.who.int) and this creates panic and a large impact on people around them. People who suffer intense grief often take their own lives or think about taking their lives, which is never a healthy option. By educating ourselves and others we can reduce the stigma about depression and suicide, which will help reduce the number of suicides around the world.
“World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) was established in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention in conjunction with the World Health Organization (WHO). The 10th of September each year focuses attention on the issue, reduces stigma, and raises awareness among organizations, government, and the public, giving a singular message that suicide can be prevented.” (www.who.int).
Giving people hope through positivity and action can reduce self-harm and suicide entirely! Helping your community get educated is a way you can help! Giving people the help they need is the best way to help. Being there for someone helps!
The International Association for Suicide Prevention has a program that encourages people to reach out and support others that they believe to be having a rough time. Making yourself available and watching out for your friends, family, or neighbors is a way you can help support this program! Creating hope for those who have none.
Warning signs of someone who is having suicidal thoughts are:
(All of these signs are by Renée Onque from www.cnbc.com)
Talking about suicidal intentions:
“I wish I didn’t exist.”
“I wish I was dead.”
“People would have a better life without me here.”
“I can’t go on.”
Behavioral changes include making a plan:
Quitting extracurricular activities that they love
Distancing themselves from loved ones
Drinking or using drugs
Ways to help loved ones:
Console them
Avoid saying things like:
“Why would you do that?”
“Things will get better.”
“It can’t be that bad.”
“Don’t do anything that you would regret.”
Say things like:
“I care about you.”
“You are not alone.”
“I want to understand.”
“Can
If you or someone you know is in crisis, please contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988,
or dial 911 in case of emergency.
You are loved, be safe!
Sources:
https://www.cnbc.com/2022/09/10/world-suicide-prevention-day-warning-signs-and-resources-.html)