MEDICALEXAMINER FREE T AKE-HO ME COP Y!
TM
HEALTH • MEDICINE • WELLNESS • HEALTH • MEDICINE • WELLNESS • HEALTH • MEDICINE • WELLNESS • HEALTH • MEDICINE • WELLNESS • HEALTH • MEDICINE • WELLNESS • HEALTH • MEDICINE • WELLNESS • HEALTH • MEDICINE • WELLNESS • HEALTH • MEDICINE • WELLNESS • HEALTH • MEDICINE • WELLNESS
AIKEN-AUGUSTA’S MOST SALUBRIOUS NEWSPAPER • FOUNDED IN 2006
JULY 15, 2022
S
uicide may not be a pleasant topic for discussion, but it is a subject that simply cannot be ignored. Suicide statistics are sobering and eye-opening. Nearly 46,000 lives were lost to suicide in the United States in 2020 alone. That year there were 1.2 million attempted suicides, but the number of adults who seriously contemplated suicide was well beyond ten times that number. If those figures seem harrowing, it’s not your imagination. It’s getting worse: suicide rates in 2020 were 30% higher than in 2000. Suicide is the second-highest cause of death for two huge segments of the population: among people from ages 25 to 34, and especially tragically, people aged 10 to 14. Think about that for a minute. What are some of the reasons for suicidal thoughts and attempted suicides, whether successful or not? Among children, home and school can be the trouble spots where abuse, neglect, violence and/or bullying lead to feelings of hopelessness so great that life seems too difficult to endure. For adults, family and marital troubles can be risk factors, as can legal and financial problems, job stress or loss of employment, along with illnesses, whether physical or mental. Both age groups can share some of the same risk factors, and both also have to face the stigma attached to suicidal thoughts. No one would be ashamed to admit they have a cold, the flu, or some other bodily illness, but many people are very reluctant and embarrassed to admit they might have a mental illness. In the same way that
someone who is self-treating appendicitis or a broken arm isn’t likely to have a successful outcome, so it goes with someone trying to self-treat a self-diagnosed mental illness. Something beyond amateur assistance is needed for a beneficial outcome. Having said that, anyone can (and everyone should) be a factor in preventing suicide. It’s kind of like the post-9/11 slogan, if you see something, say something. What are some of the clear warning signs we should all be alert to?
If someone is openly talking about wanting to die, believe them; don’t brush off such comments as idle talk. Similarly, talking about feeling hopeless, having no reason to live, or being a burden to others is a very good reason to initiate a conversation. Becoming withdrawn or increasing use of alcohol or drugs can also be warning signs. What should someone do who sees possible warning signs? An obvious first step would be talking to the person displaying the red flags you’re worried about. Let
SUICIDES
If you were in the middle of a full-blown emotional crisis, it might not be easy to remember how to call the National Suicide Prevention LifeLine. For years that number has been 1-800-273-8255 (sometimes expressed as 1-800-273-TALK). Starting tomorrow (July 16), the new way to access free and confidential emotional support 24 hours a day nationwide will be 988. Callers will reach trained counselors who will listen, understand, provide support, and connect callers with resources when needed. 800-273-TALK will continue to be an active and available option. Both it and 988 reach the National Suicide Prevention LifeLine.
AUGUSTARX.COM
them know you’re concerned, and that you are there for them to talk to at any time. Don’t be judgmental, or dismiss their concerns as irrational or trivial. Be open, honest and direct, but at the same time calm and tactful. Don’t be afraid to ask: are you considering hurting yourself? Some people think just mentioning the word suicide might plant the thought into the mind of the very person they’re trying to help. The experts say that is not something to worry about. Another initial step might be medical attention, especially if the person is in your family, like your spouse, sibling, or one of your children. An examination may well identify an underlying cause that can be treated. One other first or early response that can be taken is to call the National Suicide Prevention LifeLine at 988 or 1-800-273-8255. Their goal is suicide prevention. That usually means talking to people actively contemplating suicide, but it can also mean talking to concerned friends, family members, neighbors or co-workers who need confidential, expert advice on what they’re seeing and what to do about it to help someone else. The most important way to assist someone at risk (or to help yourself if you’re the one feeling suicidal) is to take action. Don’t ignore danger signs or brush off serious warnings as imaginary, or as issues that will just magically go away. Maybe they will, but leaving that to chance is a risky option. Life is precious. Lots of tomorrows are possible. + For a look at the issue of suicides among veterans, see page 3.
got medicare questions? YOU CAN GET THE ANSWERS FROM A LOCAL AGENT OR A TELEMARKETER. WHICH WOULD YOU PREFER?
OPEN MENT ENROLLE ARE ES DEADLIN ING! H C A APPRO
Soos Benefits Group Your Local Independent Medicare Professional
706-399-1989
I can answer your questions in the way you’re most comfortable with: in person, over the phone, or by video conference.
Renea Soos • Serving Georgia & South Carolina