The shrill and incessant clamor of politics often leads one to believe there is nothing else of importance on which to focus attention. But while we remain distracted, the world continues with its pain unabated and even neighbors die unnoticed. We are not talking about wars or disease, but about people who arrived at "wits end" and found no solace or saw no recourse but to end their pain by suicide. 47,000 Amricans died by suicide in 2017, which is 2, 000 more than 2016. And the rate is rising (data from cdc.gov). Think about this:
Do you know an older person singlehandedly taking care of an older spouse or a forever child? They are at risk.
Sexual or domestic abuse victim? They are risk. A veteran? They are also at high risk. Single parents with limited socio-economic support may be equally at risk though not saying anything at all about any part of their situation.
What can we do as individuals?
First, be a friend - the kind of friend you would want someone to be to you.
2. Ask the hard questions and refuse to accept the scripted, glib, religious answers. Drill down to specific questions.
3. Offer specific help. "Do you want me to sit while you go get your hair done or while you simply take a walk?" May I cook for you this weekend or offer a specific day. Toss out, "if there is ever anything I can do ..." Its a useless cop out.
4. Just be available and show your interest by random phone calls, care packages, whatever.
Support is one of the best antidotes to suicide. Can anyone count on you?
Your timely and consistent intervention help someone to enjoy another sunrise.
Suicide hotline: 1-800-273-8255
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