Actually, it may come to this. I know how tired I am of people on their phones walking right into me in my handicap scooter–then getting mad at me for hitting them. Even more important, over 6000 pedestrians were killed in traffic last year i n the U.S. while on their mobile devices. That’s why New York and others are considering a ban on walking while on devices.
Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain are only the latest suicides we’ve heard about. They made the news because they’re famous people who “had it all.” But they didn’t, really. They lacked something important in their lives.
We all know people like them–not famous, maybe, but people who may be thinking that life isn’t worth living so why not end it. People who contribute something to this world, even if it’s “just” their love for a friend or relative.
We can, and should, keep our eyes open for the signs. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s list of Risk Factors and Warning Signs can help us spot the warning signs (talk, behavior, and mood) and risk factors (health, environment, and history). When we recognize one in someone, or even think we do, we should talk to a trained crisis counselor at the Suicide Prevention Hotline. Phone them at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text TALK to 741741 to message with a trained crisis counselor. And if you feel they’re getting close to committing suicide, call 911 and don’t leave them alone under any circumstances.
Not only are you saving their life, but you’re also reminding them that there’s at least one person who wants to continue sharing this world with them. A little thing but one that may just help them find something worth living for.
Events of this week–and of many other previous weeks with similar events–make it imperative that all of us stay alert for signs of mental illness and report them when we see them. Tell the person’s family, physician, clergy person, teacher, principal, police…anyone in a position to intervene before it’s too late. Think of it this way: there are likely others who, like you, have noticed the signs but questioned your own judgment and so did nothing. We learn after, for example, each school shooting that people had noticed. What if they had said something?
The following is directly from Warning Signs of Mental Illness, an article by the American Psychiatric Association.
Signs & Symptoms
If several of the following are occurring, it may useful to follow up with a mental health professional.
One or two of these symptoms alone can’t predict a mental illness. But if a person is experiencing several at one time and the symptoms are causing serious problems in the ability to study, work or relate to others, he/she should be seen by a mental health professional. People with suicidal thoughts or intent, or thoughts of harming others, need immediate attention.
It can happen when your child is a newborn, or as a teenager, or anytime in between: identity theft. In fact, 1/4 of our kids will have their identities stolen before they reach their 18th birthday.
Morgan Stanley has published an important “Guide for Parents” that addresses this issue. It gives warning signs and strategies. Topics include
The commercial for Morgan Stanley doesn’t come in until their last topic, Helping to Keep Your Family’s Identity Secure. Even that section contains ideas that are useful whether or not you’re a Morgan Stanley client.
If you’re a parent of a baby–whether newborn or teen–this article is worth a read.
That’s what the American Heart Assn. is inviting us to do during May, which is American Stroke Month. It’s simple. They explain how you can brush up on the warning signs, advocate, learn the 5 must-know facts about stroke, find out about your own numbers, and learn what else you can do.
For the sake of yourself and your loved ones–for everyone, in fact–check out all the information they provide about this “brain attack” at “You’re the Cure” (https://yourethecure.org/aha/advocacy/details.aspx?BlogId=1&PostId=4998).
[Thanks to Theresa Rieve for this information.]
Our kids are splashing around, having loads of fun, giggling, tossing their heads back in glee, trying to learn to float on their backs…and DROWNING. Most of us don’t readily recognize the signs that our kids are in trouble in the water. Until it’s too late.
Read this short but important article listing the signs of drowning and view a demonstration video. If you have kids or even go swimming with adults, this information could very well save a life. Click on http://www.slate.com/articles/health_and_science/family/2013/06/rescuing_drowning_children_how_to_know_when_someone_is_in_trouble_in_the.html.
