Wicomico Health Dept. offers resources during Suicide Prevention Month
Courtesy: Wico. Health Dept.
SALISBURY, Md. – The Wicomico County Health Department is recognizing National Suicide Prevention Month. The month is recognized in September, and September 10-16 is National Suicide Prevention Week. The Health Department says mental health advocates, prevention organizations, survivors, allies and community members will unite on Friday September 15 to participate in “Wear Yellow Day.”
The “Wear Yellow Day” campaign aims to raise awareness about suicide prevention by teaching others how to connect, discuss, and provide resources for those at risk for suicide.
Each year, the Health Department says more than 700,000 people take their own life, that’s about one death every 40 seconds.
“Everyone can take action to prevent suicide and provide support,” said Wicomico Behavioral Health Authority Director Michelle Hardy. “Despite concerning numbers, with the right resources and intervention, individuals can find help or learn how to provide support to others, potentially saving lives.”
Officials say early detection is the key. The following warning signs are indicators that a person may be in acute danger and may urgently need help:
– Expressing the desire to kill or injure themselves.
– Looking for information about methods of suicide
– Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
– Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
– Talking about being a burden to others
– Increasing the use of drugs or alcohol
– Acting anxious or agitated, behaving recklessly.
– Withdrawing, feeling isolated or extreme mood swings
– Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
– Expressing heightened fixation with death or violence
Risk factors are also characteristics that may make it more likely an individual will consider or attempt suicide. If any of the following risk factors are expressed in conjunction with the above warning signs, a person may be at considerable risk of suicide.
– Stressful life events such as the death of a loved one, divorce or job loss
– Prolonged stress factors such as harassment, bullying, social humiliation, relationship problems, or unemployment
– Easy access to lethal methods including firearms or drugs
– Prior suicide attempt(s) and/or prolonged history of self-harming behaviors
– Barriers to accessing health care treatment
– Social isolation and/or alienation
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Local resources include the following:
1. Eastern Shore Crisis Response Team: 1-888-407-8018
2. Maryland’s Helpline – Dial 2-1-1 and press 1 for information, referral, and crisis intervention
3. Life Crisis Center 410-749-4357(HELP)
