Preventing Suicide

Living with a loved one that suffers from depression is no simple task. Even if they are taking an anti-depressant, there will still be times when they will feel depressed, sad and withdrawn. For these individuals it will be very important that they live a healthy, balanced lifestyle. They will need to eat healthy, exercise, maintain an average of eight hours of sleep and nurture their spiritual life. Sustaining this lifestyle takes structure and dedication that many people have difficulty perserving.

Individuals that suffer from depression often have a pessimistic viewpoint of life. They will obsess about wanting to die, abuse drugs and alcohol and make choices that will deliberately harm themself and the people that they love. If you are concerned about someone suffering from depression there are some steps that you can take.

• Let the person talk about their feelings.
• Be accepting of them and try not to judge.
• Ask them if they are having suicidal thoughts.
• Take all suicide threats seriously.
• Do not swear to secrecy. Tell someone.
• Contact a counselor, pastor, or your local mental health helpline.

There are several websites that offer more informations and support.

• Suicide Information & Education Centre www.suicideinfo.ca
• American Association of Suicidology www.suicidology.org
• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention www.afsp.org
• Suicide Awareness/Voices of Education www.save.org

It is important to address all warning signals that a depressed person may share with you. You could be saving a life.

Take care and I will write to you again next week.

Gina