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Suicide prevention event Sept. 15
To the Editor:
Suicide deaths are on the rise in Missouri. Suicide is a complex public health issue that requires action. September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month — a time to share resources and information to shed light on this highly stigmatized topic. We use this month to reach out to those affected by suicide, raise awareness, and connect individuals with suicidal thoughts to treatment services. It is also important to ensure that individuals, friends, and families have access to the resources they need to discuss suicide prevention. Suicide Prevention is everyone’s responsibility. This is a call to action for everyone to learn the warning signs of suicide, have conversations with individuals, and get involved in activities that create space for education and unashamed conversations.
Most people who are considering suicide show some warning signs or signals of their intentions. The signs or changes in behavior may appear in conversations, through their actions, or in social media posts. These are of most concern if the behavior is new, has increased or seems related to a painful event, loss, or change. Some examples of suicide warning signs are feeling like a burden, not having a purpose or meaning in life, isolation, hopelessness, being isolated, or giving away their possessions. Learn more about the warning signs at afsp.org.
It is important to reach out and have conversations with individuals who illustrate the warning signs of suicide. Feeling connected to friends, family, and our community can be a protective factor for suicide. Use this time to reach out to someone in your life and let them know that you are comfortable to talk about anything they need, including suicide, and should they ever come to a point where they are questioning their reasons for living, you will be there to listen and support them.
Creating this safe space at a time when there is no crisis is one way we can play a role in suicide prevention.
It may seem scary to start the conversation. The uncomfortable feelings will lessen with practice. You can start the conversation by letting them know you noticed a change in their behavior or mood. For more information about starting the conversation at https://talkawaythedark.afsp.org.
Lastly, please participate in community activities that share information and awareness about Suicide Prevention. PBHS STUCO, Missouri Highlands, and FCC Behavioral Health, along with many partners of the Mental Health Coalition will be hosting a tailgating event for Suicide Prevention on Sept. 15, the Poplar Bluff High School football game against Jackson. The event will start at 5 pm.
This will be an opportunity to share information and hope to prevent suicide. Participants are asked to wear yellow while we Tackle the Talk of suicide prevention and fight the stigma. In addition to knowing the warning signs, suicide prevention requires everyone to share the information with others. Spread the word about suicide prevention with friends and family, and on social media accounts.
If you or someone you know needs help, please know that you are not alone. Crisis lines, counselors, intervention programs, and more are available to you, whether you are in crisis yourself or concerned about someone else. Call, text, or chat 988. Please spend some time learning about one or more of these resources:
https://www.suicideispreventable.org/
Thanks,
Kris Uselton LPC, Clinical Officer, Crisis Diversion/Outreach Services, FCC Behavioral Health