Suicide Prevention Resources

Every Life is Precious

Suicide is a very serious issue that can also have serious effects on individuals, their families, and the community. While the causes of suicide are complex and multiple factors may be in play, prevention is the final goal. Simply reducing the factors that increase risk and realizing that the issue can encompass all aspects of a person’s life is a start. Prevention should ideally address all areas of influence. To be effective, prevention should promote awareness and encourage social change.

There are approximately one million people that die from suicide each year globally. That’s one death almost every forty seconds. These figures do not include attempted suicide, which is twenty times more frequent. As times get more difficult in the world, there is concern these numbers could rise. One of the top leading causes of death is suicide. While figures vary for different areas of the world, the overall age groups most at risk are those aged 10 to 44.

Europeans and those living in North America are at major risk due to mental disorders, while impulsiveness is the risk factor in Asian countries. There are social, psychological, cultural, biological and even environmental factors that play into affect. It is a complex issue.

There are signs to look for that could reveal someone at risk. Pay extra attention if someone’s behavior is new, if the behavior has increased, or if it appears to be related to loss, change or after a painful event. It may be prudent to seek the help of a mental health professional. For immediate care, there are local and international crisis contacts available in almost all countries and states. If you know someone exhibiting any of the following signs it may be time to intervene.

  • Talking about death, wanting to die or kill themselves.
  • Talking about not having a reason to be alive or an overall feeling of hopelessness.
  • Doing research or Internet searches of weapons, especially guns.
  • Talking about how he or she is a burden to those around them.
  • Talking about having a feeling of being trapped or in pain.
  • More frequent use of drugs and/or alcohol.
  • Spending a lot of time sleeping or not sleeping enough.
  • Feeling isolated or withdrawing from others.
  • Acting recklessly; agitated or anxious.
  • Talking about taking revenge or displaying rage.
  • Uncharacteristic extreme mood swings.
  • A sudden change or disregard for personal hygiene.

Pay even closer attention to these warning signs if the person is bipolar, an alcoholic, or has depression and a past history with attempted suicide. Sometimes one of the most dangerous signs is that of feeling hopeless. Hopelessness can strongly predict suicide. When a person feels there is no future and foresees nothing positive they may feel day-to-day life is unbearable. This feeling can be intensified if there is a family history of suicide, as it may seem that their loved ones also saw no reason to go on.

Someone feeling suicidal might not seek help, but it doesn’t mean help isn’t wanted. Most people in this situation don’t really want to die; they just want the hurt to stop. Prevention begins by recognizing the signs and not ignoring them. If you believe someone in your life is considering suicide, don’t be afraid to talk about it. Simply bringing up the subject could save the person’s life and often prevention begins with the sensitive responses of a loved one. Give your family member or friend alternatives, show them you care, and get a medical professional involved. Your reassurance, understanding and support may help the person conquer their ideas of suicide. If he or she opens up to you with feelings of despair or suicidal thoughts, seek the help of a health professional immediately!

If you find yourself in such a situation, remain calm and be prepared to really listen if the person wants to talk. Be understanding and offer emotional support. This is not a time to be angry with the person or disregard what they are feeling. Talk directly about suicide, most people aren’t sure about their feelings about dying or death and want help. Discuss alternatives and problem-solving ideas. Remember the person is not emotionally in a right place and their thinking may be clouded. Be encouraging, hopeful and confident that you can help to arrange whatever is needed to help.

You don’t have to be suicidal to call the hotline; anyone is welcome to call!
The Idaho Suicide Prevention Hotline, a program of Jannus, is committed to the prevention of suicide in Idaho. The hotline provides crisis intervention, emotional support, resource referrals, linkages to local services, and follow-up for all Idahoans, including those at risk for suicide and their families and loved ones. ISPH listens supportively to callers, empowering them to look at options and come up with their own solutions.

Suicide and Mental illness

Everyone is different and mental illness affects people in different ways.

The CDC can help in knowing signs and information on guidance. There are warning signs for suicide. Research has uncovered a wealth of information about the causes of suicide and prevention strategies.

Family and friends can help care for someone to get them to an evaluation and to begin the treatment process. This website can help families and friends with knowing the signs of suicide, how to help someone they love, and mental illness. Being there for someone can be an important link in getting help and the proper treatment.

Q&A to help youth that may have questions.

Being there and knowing what to say can be hard for anyone. This website can be used as a guide in showing support and being there for someone.

© 2024 Bell Tower Funeral Home of Salmon. All Rights Reserved. Funeral Home website by CFS & TA | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Accessibility