A few days ago I got a request through the blog for more information on suicide prevention. It’s taken me a little while to put a post together, because I was on-call for a while. So, that seems like a good place to start. I’m going to talk about symptoms and resources first, but you can skip to the end for some links and info on the Suicide Prevention Coalition if you would like.

SCS offers 24-hour emergency services that any person can access, even if they are not one of our clients. Experienced clinicians provide on-call services and can help people with a variety of mental health emergencies. Because this post is about suicide prevention, I’ll focus on that type of emergency. If you or someone you know is suicidal, you can talk to a clinician at any time. Call our office at 352-6680 or 875-5515 and ask to speak to the on-call clinician. We can provide support, referrals for services, stress management skills, and information. With more serious suicidal thoughts or a suicide attempt, we work with Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County to provide emergency services. People who go to the hospital with thoughts of suicide are usually referred to us and may talk to the on-call clinician in the hospital.

Depression is a pretty common mental health diagnosis, and not everyone who is depressed has thoughts of killing themselves. If you do hear a friend talking about suicidal thoughts or a plan to commit suicide, take it seriously. This can include specific statements about wanting to die or vague statements about not being around anymore. People who feel hopeless are usually at more risk for suicidal thoughts. Self-injury is not the same as a suicide attempt, but it can be a risk factor for suicide.

So, if you have a friend, family member, or child that has some of the symptoms above, you are probably wondering what to do. Talk to that person. Ask about suicidal thoughts or plans, and take what they tell you seriously. Help the person find help – usually by encouraging them to see a therapist. We offer individual and group therapy services for people with depression. If suicidal thoughts or plans are more severe, take the person to the emergency room. Your support is going to be really important, but keep in mind that you should not go through this alone. Help your friend build a support network by getting a therapist. You can see a therapist too, if you need support. You don’t have to be the only person providing help.

If you are suicidal, talk to someone. Talk to a trusted friend, and take their advice. Call us and get an appointment to see someone, or talk to the on-call worker. Call the national suicide prevention lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK. When things seem hopeless, it can be easier to forget the things that make life living. Talking with someone can help you remember those things, and therapy can help you find ways to cope with and reduce symptoms of depression so that you feel better.

For parents and family members – if you have guns or other weapons in your house, make sure they are securely locked in a gun safe and that your children or depressed family members do not have access to them. If you have more questions about how to make your house more safe for an impulsive or depressed individual, give us a call.

The Sweetwater County Suicide Prevention Coalition meets at SCS in our College Drive office. You may remember this group from their annual Why I Love to Live art shows. They can provide trainings to the public and can give general information as well. Their monthly meetings are open to the public, so if you are interested in learning more, come check out a meeting. They are the last Thursday of every month from 12:00-1:30 in the College Drive office. The next one should be 4/26 if you want to join them.

Check out the quiz at www.justletitout.org/quiz to find out more about symptoms and need for services. And, if you suspect someone you know is suicidal, get more information here.