. . . .September . . . . . . . . . . .13, . . .2017 ..............................................................................................................
health
34
Weekly Publication
National Suicide Prevention Week #StopSuicide S
uicide Prevention Week for 2017 is set for September 10th through 16th. Suicide is the leading cause of inj ury related deaths for Arkansans between the ages of 20 and 64 and the second leading cause of death among all other age groups, according to the Arkansas Department of Health. The statistics are staggering. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the U nited States with one suicide occurring on average every 11.9 minutes. Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among 15 to 24-yearolds. The elderly make up 14.5 % of the population, but comprise 16.6% of all suicides. Approximately 1,104,825 Americans attempt suicide each year. I t is estimated that 5 .1 million living Americans have attempted to kill themselves. Every year in the U nited States, more than 22,018 men and women kill themselves with a gun; two thirds more than the number who use a gun to kill another person. An estimated 6.5 million Americans are survivors of suicide of a friend, family member, or loved one. There is such a stigma that accompanies suicide that leaves many feeling even more helpless. I t’s a perpetual cycle. I t plagues those mired by suicidal thoughts and attempts, as Kevin Caruso, founder of Suicide.org, explains on the site: Because of the stigma ( the ignorant stigma, mind you)
N ational Fam ily Care giv e r S up p ort P rogram
that still exists concerning mental illness, many people who need help do not seek it. Even though there is clear scientific data that indicates irre ta l that a ph sical connection exists with most mental disorders, many people still stigmatize others because they stupidly hold on to the misguided beliefs of yesteryear that people with mental disorders are weak or j ust lack will power. Suicide doesn’t j ust affect the person suffering. There is a circle of family, friends, and co-workers that are left to cope with not only the pain but the endless q uestions they hold themselves and are asked by others. What is the answer? Awareness. One such survivor, Kristina Cowan, lost her brother to suicide and has led a campaign to bring awareness that help cultivate a change in its perception and reduce the stigma associated with it: No one, no institution or part of our society, is free from stigma associated with suicide and mental illness. Changing this will be an enormous endeavor. What will it req uire? Raising our voices individually and collectively, as some attempt survivors have. Working with our mental-health providers and places of worship, to q uell fears of lawsuits and unfavorable public opinion. Examining our own misconceptions, and striving for greater sensitivity. And that’s j ust a short list. Many times there are signs that warn us someone is
our local licensed nutrition educator will always be in one place...
September 18, 2017 at 11:15 am
The Cossatot Senior Center
7366 Hwy 71 S • Wickes, AR 71973 Office: 870-385-2373
considering suicide but many times, there are not. I f you are suffering from any of the following or know of someone exhibiting any of the following, there is help: • Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself; • Looking for a way to kill oneself; • Talking about feeling hopeless or having no purpose; • Talking about feeling trapped or being in unbearable pain; • Talking about being a burden to others; • I ncreasing the use of alcohol or drugs; • Acting anxious, agitated, or reckless; • Sleeping too little or too much; • Withdrawing or feeling isolated; • Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge; and • Displaying extreme mood swings. Don’t wait to reach out. There’s never going to be a better time than right now.
R E SO U R C E S F O R H E L P: Cedar Haven (LOCAL) 479-243-2800 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-825 5
Call 394.7301 to make your appointment! All ages WELCOME.
Military or Veterans Crisis Line 1-800-273-825 5
( press 1)
or TEX T to 83825 5
ALL CALLS ARE CONFIDENTIAL
welcomes
Beth Polo Beckel RD LD CDE
Caregiver Support Meeting
If you are a caregiver of an adult 60 years and older please come join us. This information could be extremely helpful to you. The topic will be “Gout” presented by Pamela Tabor, Ouachita Regional Hospice. For information call Taryn Jinks 870-385-2373. Hope to see you there. Refreshments will be served.
BY LEANN DILBECK
editor@mypulsenews.com
at Mena
Assisted Living
Jennifer Powers Director of Care
Bringing 14 years of nursing experience in long term care, wound care, and medical management. Come visit us during
National Assisted Living Week September 10-16 Come join the f�n on Sat�rday for our family game day!
Now Hiring LPN’s Call us to set up a tour.
479-243-0033
1341 Mena Street, Mena www.theoaksatmena.com