International Survivors of Suicide Day

 

Sometimes in life, unfortunate events occur that crack the foundation on which we stand and shake our sense of the world. During these difficult times, we are forever changed. We find ourselves facing the struggle, adapting to the pain, and doing all that we can to be strong enough to survive and move forward. Saturday, November 23rd is International Survivors of Suicide Day, an opportunity to connect with survivors of suicide in your community, to honor the lives of those lost, and promote the positive message of healing.

According to the American Association of Suicidology, a survivor of suicide is a family member or friend of a person who died by suicide. Surviving a tragedy means something different to everyone and no two stories are alike. However, the end goal is always the same: taking time to grieve and finding the strength to carry on.

This year the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is working to connect survivors of suicide in their communities all over the world. In 300 different cities and on 6 different continents, survivors of suicide are welcome to attend an event in their area to share their personal story and coping mechanisms in a warm, healing space. If you are a survivor of suicide, you are not alone. Click here to find an International Survivors of Suicide Day event near you.

Every 40 seconds another person dies by suicide, leaving behind family and friends searching for answers. Are you worried about a loved one or are you struggling yourself? You are not alone.

More than 90 percent of people who die by suicide have at least one diagnosable and treatable mental illness. The most commonly associated illnesses are depression, PTSD, and substance abuse.

Increasing awareness of the risk factors and warning signs associated with suicide is an important first step in prevention. An individual who is considering taking their own life may show one or more of the following warning signs:

·         Talking about taking their own life or wishing they were dead

·         Seeking access to means, such as buying a gun or hoarding prescription drugs

·         Talking about a suicide plan

·         Believing they are a burden to others

·         Isolating themselves from loved ones

·         Acting irritable or agitated

According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, 50-75% of individuals who attempt suicide tell someone about their plan. Take suicide threats seriously. If you think a friend or family member may be struggling with suicidal ideation, take action. Encourage the loved one to seek help from a professional or offer to take them yourself. If the situation is critical, call 911. Help is also available through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

After receiving treatment, encouraging a loved one to continue to get the help they need is imperative to the healing process. Sometimes finding the proper medication or the right therapist can take some time. Continue to be supportive of your loved one and let them know you are by their side every step of the way.

International Survivors of Suicide Day is an important opportunity to connect with loved ones, remember those whose lives were lost, and educate the public on the signs of depression and suicide.