SafetyCops.com

Suicide Prevention

By David Hahn, L.C.S.W.

As we begin to look forward to signs of spring and making winter a memory, many people cannot and are still stuck in past memories. They have a hard time moving forward. These individuals are suffering generally from some sort of depression.

Many people attempt to take their lives in February, and some are successful. Suicide is the eighth leading cause of death in the United States. Suicide claims more lives each year than AIDS and kidney disease combined. It is the third leading cause of death among teenagers and young adults (ages 13 to 24).

If you suspect that someone you love is heading down the road towards suicide, here is a list of symptoms to watch out for:

Lack of energy or little interest in things.

Abnormal sleep habits. Lack of sleep or sleeping all the time.

Poor eating habits - sudden weight loss.

Mood swings.

Fascination with death (i.e. memorials to friends that have died, attending lots of funerals, etc.)

Preparing a Will

Giving away possessions (especially things they have loved or cherished).

Isolation

Bouts of crying

Saying " I no longer want to live", "Life sucks", "Things won’t get better", Good-bye forever", etc.

These are some examples of possible suicidal thought. If you are experiencing these symptoms, or suspect a friend is, you are urged to seek professional help. There are many fine organizations available throughout the country dedicated to helping people manage personal crisis. Check your phone book, look on the Internet, or call the police. Suicide is not a solution.

David Hahn is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Illinois. His company provides crisis and suicide interdiction for many police agencies. He is a member of the Illinois Association of Suicidology. You can reach Mr. Hahn at (630) 530-6339.