September Promotes National Suicide Awareness, Prevention Month

BY AMANDA MILLER

 OPIONIONS EDITOR      

September is National Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month. National Suicide Prevention Week is Sept. 8 through Sept. 14. It is a campaign to inform and engage health professionals and the general public about suicide prevention and warning signs of suicide. If one wants to know more about Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month go to https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/promote-national-suicide-prevention-month/

Some warning signs of suicide are:

Talking about wanting to die or kill yourself

Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge

Sleeping too little or too much

Talking about feeling hopeless or having no purpose 

Displaying extreme mood swings

Withdrawing or feeling isolated 

Changing normal routine, including eating or sleeping patterns

Developing personality changes or being severely anxious or agitated, particularly when experiencing some of the warning signs listed above

Mrs. Justis, West High Councilor, stated, “Every teacher has received training on suicide prevention.  We are also working with Wellness teachers to incorporate prevention information. Knowledge and trust are key! We are also going to share things on social media about prevention. It is ok to talk about how you are feeling. Even if you think you aren't supposed to feel that way!” She also gave some tips to encourage a teen to talk to an adult about depression or wanting to hurt themselves, “The biggest thing is to be honest.  It is hard to talk about your feelings.  Everyone worries about what the other person will think of them.  Feelings aren't wrong.  It is the judgement from another person that makes us feel bad.  Don't think you have to make things sound better because you are sharing. Tell the person how you really feel and give details.  Make sure you are talking to a trusted adult.  Adults can help.  It may be a family member, teacher or a counselor.  It may be your best friend's mom.  Whom ever you feel will listen to you and guide you in the right direction for help.  If a friend talks to you about suicide, please tell an adult!  Even if you don't think the friend is serious talk to an adult about what was said.  You never know when you might save someone's life! There is an app that you can download on your phone that will give you guidance to help with a friend that talks to you about suicide. It is called A Friend Asks.”