NEILLSVILLE, Wis. — We can all help prevent suicide. Every year mental health organizations and individuals across the U.S. and around the world raise awareness of suicide prevention during September, National Suicide Prevention Month. Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the United States, accounting for the loss of more than 41,000 American lives each year–more than double the number lost to homicide.
The Clark County Mental Health Task Force is now in its third year of helping to educate the community about suicide prevention and mental health issues with the goal of reducing the stigma of mental illness. Mental health includes a person’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.
To help recognize the signs of a potential suicide, trained members of the Clark County mental Health Task Force have been sharing an educational program called QPR (Question, Probe, Refer) throughout the county. QPR trainings teach members of the public about the warning signs of a suicide crisis; expressions of hopelessness, depression, giving away prized possessions, talking about suicide, and securing lethal means. The program teaches people how to respond.
Currently, close to 500 people in Clark County have received QPR training. These individuals come from all walks of life but share the belief that the simple offering of hope and social and spiritual support can often avert a suicide attempt. Negative attitudes around mental health problems can cause individuals or families to deny symptoms or delay treatment. In reality, individuals with mental illness generally are able to live successful, full lives—particularly if they receive proper treatment and support.
According to www.mentalhealth.gov, one in five American adults have experienced a mental health problem. One in 10 young people has experienced major depression and one in 25 Americans lives or has lived with a serious mental illness, such as schizophrenia, bipolar or major depressive disorder. Many factors contribute to problems, including genes or brain chemistry, life experiences, trauma or abuse, or a family history of mental health problems. These factors are important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.
In spite of the numbers of people needing treatment, only 44 percent of adults with diagnosable mental health problems and less than 20 percent of children and adolescents receive care. These statistics hold true in both rural and urban areas of the country.
As a society, we have difficulty talking about our mental health or recognizing the signs of problems in ourselves or others. We hear about problems experienced by celebrities and athletes, but often fail to see the issues closer to home. Research shows people who are having thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone asks after them in a caring way. Findings suggest acknowledging and talking about suicide may reduce rather than increase suicidal ideation.
Suicide is not inevitable for anyone. By starting the conversation, providing support, and directing help to those who need it, we can prevent suicides and save lives. If you are interested in learning more about QPR or the work of the Clark County Mental Health Task Force, contact the Clark County Health Department, Clark County Community Services, or University of Wisconsin-Division of Extension-Clark County.
If you are in crisis or know someone that needs mental health services, please call the 24 Hour Mental Health and AODA Crisis Line. 715-743-3400 or 800-863-3560
— UW-Extension
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