September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. 

According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, suicide is currently the 10th leading cause of death in the US. This is just one of the troubling statistics surrounding suicide over the last couple of years.

Do you know the signs?

warning signs that someone may be contemplating committing suicide

While not every case is the same, below are several warning signs that someone may be exhibiting if they are considering injuring themselves.

• Openly talking about wanting to hurt or kill themselves.
• Researching ways to kill themselves online.
• Taking action on the research they’ve done by seeking to purchase firearms, available pills, etc.
• Drafting a suicide note.
• Giving personal items away to family & friends.
• They begin having an apathetic attitude towards friends, family and life in general.
• They begin isolating themselves from family and friends.
• They openly express feelings of hopelessness and anxiety.
• They’re either sleeping a majority of the time or constantly restless and unable to sleep.
• They have little or no appetite. 

How should I approach someone who is showing these signs?

Psychology Today Magazine says that if you believe someone close to you in considering committing suicide then you need to start a conversation with them as soon as possible. You should approach them in a calm, non-confrontational manner as you ask them the following questions:

• Are you thinking about hurting yourself? 
• Are you thinking about dying? 
• Are you thinking about suicide?
• Have you come up with a plan for taking your own life? 

Afterward, you should calmly suggest that they seek professional help and leave the door open for the two of you to speak again.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.

To reach the NSPL call 1-800-273-8255. 

Does Hocking College offer any counseling services?

YES! Located in John light Hall on the Nelsonville campus in room 241, the Hawks Center for Well-Being offers individual, consultation and intervention counseling services as well as referrals.

These services are available to our students and staff and walk-ins are served on a first-come, first-serve basis. The Hawks Center for Well-Being is in partnership with Hopewell Health Centers and Genesis Medical Group. Hopewell Counseling Services will be available 6 days a week, Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.