Don’t wait until it’s too late
Hunter Merck, Assistant Editor
The 10th leading cause of death in the United States. One hundred twenty-one deaths a day. But what is it? What causes so many people to die?
Suicide is a big issue. Some people are so consumed by hopelessness that they do not think they have any other choice but to end their own lives. A great resource for anyone who is struggling is the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Their website offers help for everyone, not just for those that are experiencing suicidal thoughts, but also for loved ones that are worried, those who have lost someone, or someone who has made attempts to end their own life.
The most important feature of their website is the “Find Support” tab. On it, someone can share that they are having thoughts of suicide. From there, a user is sent to another page with a couple of resources to call or text in order to get the help they need. There are four different options including the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, the Veterans Crisis Line, Crisischat.org, and Crisis Text Line. There is also a link to find a mental health professional. There are also resources for those that are at risk or who have made attempts and what they can do to continue.
The “Take Action” page gives someone the opportunity to be an advocate for people who are struggling with mental health problems and suicide. It gives users the opportunity start campaigns, walk in honor of someone, volunteer, do research and donate money to the fund. This page is important for people to know there is hope for them beyond the reason that is causing them to have suicidal thoughts.
There is also a page that has general information about suicide. The website lists warning signs and risk factors for someone who is worried about someone they love. They provide statistics for anyone that wants to know how many people are affected. The NFSP also gives information for journalists to help them know how to report on the issue.
For more information, please visit their website and if you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, reach out and get help in any way that you can.
