suicide
Suicide
Suicide is the second leading cause of death among college students. It is often the result of immense psychological discomfort. It is estimated that 40-60% of persons who commit suicide are clinically depressed. The good news is that depression is very treatable.
Many people do not go to counseling or turn to others for help because they believe asking for help would mean that they are a failure or inferior to others. Or they may feel that no one can help them solve their problems. The truth is that there are people who can help.
Suicide is the second leading cause of death among college students.
Most people who experience suicidal thoughts at one point in time move past the experience and lead a normal life. If you feel suicidal, please know that you are not alone, and please get help. You may call Counseling Services at 447-5441, or you may contact the on-call counselor at 949-4357 (949-HELP). The on-call counselor is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week except during school breaks. You can also call the local Crisis Center line at 443-5353.
Research indicates that the majority of persons who attempt suicide give some warning signs, verbal or behavioral, of their intent to kill themselves. It’s important to be aware that a person who is considering suicide may not appear sad or blue. Rather he or she may appear lively, happy, social, and achievement oriented. In cases like this, signs not associated with depression or isolation may be present that indicate the person is considering suicide.
Some of the risk factors for suicide are listed below. Many people may show some of these signs without ever trying to kill themselves. However, these are signs that let us know something may be seriously wrong and give us an opportunity to reach out and offer help.
· Chronic sadness or depression
· Social isolation
· Loss of interest in activities
· Direct or indirect statements about suicide or hopelessness
· Preoccupation with death
· Making a plan or other preparations for suicide
· History of previous suicide attempt(s)
· Marked change in the person’s usual patterns of behavior
· Giving away money or valued possessions
· Writing a will, good-bye letter or suicide note
· Severe family or other relationship problems
· Legal problems
· Significant academic problems
· Recent trauma
If you notice any of the above warning signs in a friend or loved one, you have reason to be concerned. There are ways that you can be helpful to a friend or loved one who is thinking of taking their own life.
Ø Be honest and express your concerns. For example, “You seem really down lately, is something bothering you?”
Ø Ask directly about thoughts of suicide. For example, “Have you thought of killing yourself?”
Ø Listen and offer emotional support, understanding, and patience.
Ø Convey the message that depression is real and treatable.
Ø Offer to accompany your friend to see a counselor.
Ø If suicidal thoughts are expressed it is important to contact Counseling Services as soon as possible.
Ø If the person is suicidal, do not leave them alone. Call for help or take the person to the hospital emergency room.