World Suicide Prevention Day: #BeThe1To Prevent it

Suicide is slowly emerging into the light to be discussed, understood, and diminished. But…

In the US, suicide is the second largest cause of death for young adults.

You can be the one to prevent a suicide for a friend or loved one.

Here’s how. [The following is from the LIFELINE suicide prevention crisis line.]

#BeThe1To:

Ask

Research shows people who are having thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone asks after them in a caring way. Findings suggest acknowledging and talking about suicide may reduce rather than increase suicidal ideation.

Be There

Individuals are more likely to feel less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful after speaking to someone who listens without judgment.

Keep Them Safe

A number of studies have indicated that when lethal means are made less available or less deadly, suicide rates by that method decline, and frequently suicide rates overall decline.

Help Them Stay Connected

Studies indicate that helping someone at risk create a network of resources and individuals for support and safety can help them take positive action and reduce feelings of hopelessness.

Follow Up

Studies have also shown that brief, low-cost intervention and supportive, ongoing contact may be an important part of suicide prevention, especially for individuals after they have been discharged from hospitals or care services.

Learn More

Get message kits, resources, events, and more at the official website [link above].

Who am I? An author of novels for young adults, a former suicide crisis line counselor, a mental health advocate, and a mom and grandma with a soft spot for mischievous children. Here’s my latest:

18-year-old suicide prevention worker Delilah’s terminally ill aunt challenges everything Del thought she knew about life and death.