Take suicide's warning signs seriously

With the ongoing pandemic isolation and resulting disruptions of routine life, September’s observance of National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month is more important than ever.

If you, or someone you know is thinking of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.

What are the signs to worry about?

According to the Lifeline, some of the risk factors include:

· A preexisting mental disorder

· Alcohol or substance use disorder

· Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies

· Major physical illness

· Job or financial loss

· Loss of relationship(s)

· Access to lethal means

· Lack of social support and sense of isolation

Other warning signs to watch for:

· Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves

· Looking for a way to kill themselves, like 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 isolating themselves

· Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge

· Extreme mood swings

Local resources are available for help.

“It is important to reach people early,” said Laura Kugler RN/Program Director for Senior Life Solutions at Tri Valley Health Systems in Cambridge.

“We know it can be difficult to ask for help, but by educating our community we hope we can show people that it is okay to reach out and ask for help for themselves or a loved one.”

For more information, or if an older loved one is in need of help, call Tri Valley Health System Senior Life Solutions at 308-697-1299.

Community Hospital in McCook also offers behaviorial health services through its Generational Guidance program, 308-344-8280 or click here.

More resources are available at the Suicide Prevention Resource Center, here.