photo credit: D.H. Parks via photopin cc
Have you ever wondered what goes through the mind of a person who takes their own life?
When they woke up in the morning did they say to themselves “This is the day I shoot myself in the head?” Or did the day go so bad that they just couldn’t stand life another minute?
Suicide is a very serious problem with the numbers rising, so much that it has become the 8th leading cause of death in the United States. This has become such a problem we have a suicide prevention day. There is also quite a bit of misinformation out there regarding suicide. Be sure to learn the facts on suicide and be aware of the signs, it may make all the difference for someone you love.
Here are a few facts you may not know.
The elderly, not younger people, have the highest suicide rate.
Hanging is the most widely used method. Robin Williams hung himself with a belt and David Carradine (Kung Fu, Kill Bill) was found hanging with a nylon rope around his neck.
Four of out five people who succeed in killing themselves have attempted it before.
Divorced people are reported to be three times as likely to commit suicide as married people. Divorced men have a much higher rate than divorced women.
The number one spot is reported to be the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.
The jump from the bridge is reportedly 250 feet. Many die from the impact of the body on the water.
One of the highest risk groups are soldiers, particularly those suffering from post traumatic stress or other psychiatric disorders.
Nearly everyone who has taken their own life has talked about it to others either casually or joking. Pay attention to the warning signs. This may be the only cry for help you get!
Most suicidal people have given warning of their intentions. It is a myth to think that talking about those suicidal feelings will lead to the person taking action to complete their plans. Quite to the contrary, talking about it with the person may be one of the most helpful things you could do.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Questions such as these below can help you assess the immediate risk for suicide:
- Do you have a suicide plan? (PLAN)
- Do you have what you need to carry out your plan (pills, gun, etc.)? (MEANS)
- Do you know when you would do it? (TIME SET)
- Do you intend to commit suicide? (INTENTION)
Take action, remove items from the home that could be potential weapons for suicide. Don’t leave the person alone. Seek help from a professional.
Advanced Bio Treatment professionals are often called in to deal with the cleanup scene from a suicide.
This is always a sensitive situation for friends and family who simply. The unanswered questions, the shock, the guilt are simply overwhelming and life changing.
None of us wants to come home to a traumatic scene. It is far too late for many people. It may not be too late to stop someone else.
Our trained professionals are available to help in your time of need.
