Suicide Prevention

Suicide Prevention
1 - 800 - 273 - TALK

In light of everything that has happened, with the recent, tragic passing of both Kate Spade, founder of the Kate Spade company, and Anthony Bourdain, chef, author, and travel documentarian, I feel the need to share this:

No matter how fine you, your friend(s), family, a colleague, etc., may seem, take a minute to really think about how you or they are actually feeling. LISTEN to what they say, pay attention, and really understand them.

Suicide is real. Mental Health needs to be talked about.

Robin Williams' friends: "He was always happy. Everyone adored him."

Kate Spade's Dad: "I just talked to her an hour before and she was planning a trip. She was just like her brand - happy, cheerful, and full of color."

Anthony Bourdain's best friend: "He loved his life and had this extraordinary ability to just connect with people."

SOMETIMES YOU NEED TO CHECK ON THOSE WHO SEEM THE STRONGEST.

We shouldn't have to realize the signs until it is too late. Here are some of the ways to recognize red flags: 

• Talking about wanting to die, or killing themselves
• Searching for ways to die (i.e. buying a gun, searching online, etc.)
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
• Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
• Talking about being a burden to others
• Increasing the use of alcohol and drugs
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Withdrawing or isolating themselves
• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
• Extreme mood swings
• Lack of self care or negelct
• Previous unresolved suicidal attempts

Below are some websites that can answer any other questions you have like how to help someone, knowing the signs, how to keep someone safe, etc., as well as those that provide helplines:

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Cardinal Innovations Healthcare

Your Life Counts

Good Therapy

14 Ways To Tell If Someone Is Suicidal VIDEO

If you, or someone you know is struggling, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at:

 1-800-273-TALK

OR

The 24-Hour Crisis Hotline at:

1-800-939-5911

You are not alone.