(Article for The Best Times- July-August 2018 Johnson County, Kansas)
By: Kristen
Reese
Suicide
is complex. There is no age group,
gender, race, etc. that it does not impact. This has never been more evident
than with the recent death by suicide of two high-profile celebrities who
appeared to have it all.
According
to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, suicide is the 10th
leading cause of death in the United States.
Suicide
prevention is everyone’s business.
“More
than one Kansan dies everyday from suicide,” Tim DeWeese, director of Johnson
County Mental Health Center, said.
He
advises residents to learn ways to identify if a loved one is at risk of
suicide. Warning signs may include:
- increased substance abuse (alcohol or drug);
- no reason for living, no sense of purpose in life;
- anxiety, agitation, unable to sleep or sleeping all the time;
- feeling trapped, like there is no way out;
- withdrawn from friends, family and society;
- rage, uncontrolled anger, seeking revenge; or,
- acting reckless or engaging in risky activities, seemingly without thinking.
Once
you’ve determined someone is exhibiting a warning sign, use your voice and
resources to get the person help. Show
interest and support, being willing to listen, offer hope that alternatives are
available, be available and reach out.
You
can start a conversation by stating; “I have been feeling concerned about you
lately” or “I wanted to check in with you because you haven’t seemed yourself
lately.”
You
can ask the question directly: “Have you had thoughts of suicide?” It can be daunting and uncomfortable when you
know someone who is thinking of suicide. Don’t let that stop you. It is safe to ask questions. They will see you
as a person they can confide it. Be familiar with the resources available.
If
you have immediate concern about someone’s safety, call 911 right away!
Additional
crisis resources available are: Johnson County Mental Health Center 24/7 Crisis
Line, call 913-268-0156 or to access services call 913-826-4200; you can also
contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24/7 at 800-273-TALK (8255) or
text 741741.
Other
helpful websites for community and national resources, coping with suicide loss
and tools for providing support:
Another
way is to get involved in suicide prevention efforts in our community is by
joining/volunteering in the Johnson County Suicide Prevention Coalition. The
coalition saves and supports life, with our community partners,
through awareness, education and outreach. For more information, visit
jocogov.org/spc or call 913-715-7880.
Together,
as a community, we will make a difference!
Kristen
Reese works in administrative support-prevention and community relations at the
Johnson County Mental Health Center.
