May 2014 by Samantha Madderom
Oneida County has been seeing an increase in the rate of suicides from previous years. In 2013, there were 35 completed suicides; 30 male and 5 female. Thus far in 2014, there have been 10 completed suicides; 9 male and 1 female. As a community what can we do to try and lower these statistics?
Suicide is not a word that is spoken about often. There is a stigma attached to the word that forces individuals to not want to talk about it. It’s almost as though individuals feel that talking about it is going to cause an individual to complete suicide, and that is not the case.
If there is someone you know that may be contemplating suicide, talk to them let them know you are there. Don’t be afraid to talk about suicide with an individual you feel is at risk for suicidal behavior. Sometimes all you need to do is let the individual know there is help out there and there is hope. If someone displays these signs, it may mean someone is at risk for suicide. Risk is greater if a behavior is new or has increased and if it seems related to a painful event, loss or change.
•Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself;
•Looking for a way to kill oneself, such as searching online or buying a gun;
•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 alcohol or drugs;
•Acting anxious, agitated or behaving recklessly;
•Sleeping too little or too much;
•Withdrawn or feeling isolated;
•Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge;
•Displaying extreme mood swings.
Additional Warning Signs of Suicide
•Preoccupation with death;
•Suddenly happier, calmer;
•Loss of interest in things one cares about;
•Visiting or calling people to say goodbye;
•Making arrangements and setting one’s affairs in order;
•Giving things away, such as prized possessions.
If you are someone you know is contemplating suicide reach out, speak up, someone is always there. In an emergency, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255). If you would like more information on local resources throughout Oneida County or would like to join the Oneida County Suicide Prevention Coalition, please contact Samantha Madderom, Oneida County Suicide Prevention Coalition Coordinator, at (315) 733–1709.
