Franklin VNA & Hospice’s Health Corner: September is National Suicide Prevention Month

FRANKLIN — Suicide is difficult to talk about. Those who have tried or considered it are often reluctant to speak about it because of the heavy social stigma attached to it. The loved ones of those who died by suicide are often confused or ashamed by the death, and don’t know how to explain the choice their loved one made. Silence about suicide is not the answer. According to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline, research shows that people who are having thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone asks after them in a caring way.

The reasons people die by suicide are personal and many, but not uncommon. Discussing the issue can help to start a conversation and shine a light on what the National Institute of Mental Health Suicide identifies as the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S., and the second leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 10 and 34. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data shows that the rate of suicide is one of the highest among those 85 and older, a population many don’t consider at risk.

It’s not just in the U.S. Take 5 to Save Lives, a worldwide movement focused on five-minute actions to get involved in suicide preventions, estimates that more people in the world die from suicide than war and murder combined.

Take 5 encourages people to learn the warning signs of someone experiencing an emotional crisis to help get them immediate emergency help. Signs include someone threatening to hurt or kill themselves, or seeking access to lethal means like weapons including online searches, or writing or talking about dying or suicide. Help connect a loved one to a hotline or mental health professional for feelings of hopelessness, being trapped, and withdrawing from friends and family, or the opposite, uncontrolled anger and recklessness, with risky behaviors.

Next, ask. Krystin Albert, chief executive officer of Franklin VNA & Hospice says, “It doesn’t have to be complicated. You can say something like, ‘You haven’t seemed like yourself lately. Is there anything going on?’ or, ‘You seem really stressed and I want to help. Are you ok?’ You don’t need to try to be perfect, just genuine and caring.”

Anyone who suspects someone is thinking about suicide should ask directly. “Have you had thoughts about suicide?” or “Do you have a plan to kill yourself?” and then be ready to listen without judgement. Let the person talk, without interruption and make them feel heard.

Take 5 to Save Lives stresses people should listen for reasons to live they may mention, hope for the future, support systems, or ambivalence. Don’t minimize problems, or shame them to try and change their mind. Don’t argue, challenge, or preach to them. Don’t tell them it will be kept a secret. If they say they are not suicidal, express an interest in understanding their thoughts and feelings together to make the best choice for their health. Let them know there is someone to listen and help if they ever have suicidal thoughts.

Take 5 to Save Lives stresses to respond in a caring way. Acknowledge that they are in real pain, and that their pain is real. It’s okay to admit not understanding everything, but emphasize caring about them and wanting to help. Stay with them while seeking help together through the emergency room, mental health clinic or National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255, or 911 if they are threatening to hurt themselves or others.

Lastly, follow up with them and see how they are doing post-crisis. Encourage them to keep any follow-up appointments, check in to make sure they got connected to resources, and see how they are doing and express care.

Albert ends with, "Spread the word on how we can care for each other, because we can make a difference in each other’s lives for the better."

For more information, call Franklin VNA & Hospice at 603-934-3454, or visit FranklinVNA.org.