Suicide touches all our lives.

In a typical year, some 30,000 Americans commit suicide.
In a typical year, some 500 persons in Alabama die by self-inflicted means.
Suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death among young people 15 to 24 years old.

It is a loss that is felt long after the event, leaving families and loved ones asking over and over, what could we have done … what made him/her do this.

How to Recognize When Help Is Needed; The person:

Talks openly about committing suicide.
Is depressed and withdrawn.
Puts affairs in order.
Abuses drugs or alcohol
Has lost a loved one, suffered a major illness or lost their job.

What you can do to help.

Listen and encourage them to talk, show that you are taking their concern seriously
Tell the person you care
Acknowledge their fears, despair or sadness
Provide reassurance, but do not dismiss the problem
Ask if they are thinking of hurting or killing themselves, and if they have a plan
Point out the consequences of suicide for the person and those they leave behind
Ensure they do not have access to lethal weapons or medications
Stay with the person if they are at high risk
Get help from professionals, offer to go with them to provide support
Let them know where they can get other help
Provide contact numbers and assist them in calling if necessary

Experts say that people who commit suicide do not really want to die; they want to end the pain they are feeling. The decision to end one’s life comes at a time of feeling hopeless and seeing no alternatives. The truth is that these crisis moments do not last forever, and if people can be helped to get through these despairing moments, they may be able to see other possibilities in life.

For immediate help:

HELPline(256)716-1000
Jackon, Limestone, Morgan residents call toll free: 1-800-691-8426
National Suicide Hotline : 1-800-273-TALK
Ambulance/Police: 911
Huntsville Hospital: (256) 265-8133
Crestwood Hospital: (256) 880-4177
Decatur General West: (256) 306-4000
Athens Limestone Hospital: (256) 233-9292
Jackson County Hospital: (256) 259-4444

For longer term help

Huntsville/Madison County Mental Health Center: (256) 533-1970
Family Services Center: (256) 551-1610
Mental Health Center of North Central Alabama: (256) 355-5904
Marshall-Jackson County Mental Health Center: (256) 582-3203