The tragedy of an individual dying because of overwhelming hopelessness or frustration is devastating to family, friends, and the community. And the survivors of a loved-one’s suicide leaves many wondering if they could have done something to prevent one from taking their own life.
According to Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff Station statistics, suicides have been on the rise. Twenty-one SCV residents taking their own lives in 2007, 19 in 2008, 27 in 2009, 24 in 2010 and 21 last year.
Suicide Warning Signs:
• Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself.
• Looking for a way to kill oneself, such as searching online or buying a gun.
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
• Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.
• Talking about being a burden to others.
• Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.
• Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly.
• Sleeping too little or too much.
• Withdrawing or feeling isolated.
• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.
• Displaying extreme mood swings.
• Giving possessions away.
How to Help:
• Be direct. Talk openly and matter-of-factly about suicide.
• Be willing to listen. Allow expressions and acceptance of feelings.
• Be non-judgmental. Don’t debate whether suicide is right or wrong, or whether feelings are good or bad.
• Don’t lecture on the value of life.
• Get involved. Become available.
• Don’t dare him or her to do it.
• Don’t act shocked. This will put distance between you.
• Don’t be sworn to secrecy. Seek support.
• Offer hope that alternatives are available but do not offer glib reassurance.
• Take action. Remove means, such as guns or stockpiled pills.
• Get help from people or agencies specializing in crisis intervention and suicide prevention.
Get Help:
Locally, Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital’s Behavioral Health Unit is available for mental health emergencies, so is ACTION Family Counseling and the SCV Child and Family Center. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 800-273-TALK.
Cary Quashen is a certified addiction specialist and the founder and president of ACTION Parent & Teen Support Group Programs and ACTION Family Counseling Centers. Quashen may be reached at 661-713-3006. Parent & Teen Support Group meetings meet at Canyon High School, Tuesday evenings at 7 p.m. in the A building in Canyon Country.