Suicide Prevention Day started in 2003, and is a day that gives organizations that are comitted to stopping and preventing suicide a chance to spread awareness about suicide. We at The Lambert Post wish to join in on the movement by giving hope to those suffering from suicidal thoughts and by spreading awareness of the issue.

Suicide is a worldwide issue taking thousands of lives every year. It is one of the most rampant killers across the world with nearly 800,000 people comitting suicide every year. Teens are the most likely to commit suicide, along with males and members of the LGBTQ+ community. In order to stop and prevent suicides many simple steps can be taken. 

One of the easiest ways of helping those who are suicidal is being able to recognize key signs and symptoms. Some common symptoms include: talking about suicide, no matter how causally spoken; increasing alcohol or drug abuse; sleeping too much or too little; talking about being a burden to others; talking about hopelessness (read more warning signs here). If you clearly see any of these signs, or these descriptions remind you of a friend, do not hesitate to reach out to the person or try and seek some help for them; and being safe is better than being sorry. Various sites will be linked at the end that are built to help those with suicidal thoughts get better; use these links if you are unsure about what can help. 

One of suicide’s biggest problems is that it is not talked about. Many think that talking about suicide is unhealthy for those thinking about it, but in fact the opposite is true (read more common myths on suicide here). Talking about suicide helps those who feel suicidal understand the problems with comitting suicide. If a loved one is showing signs and symptoms, talking about suicide and checking up on them periodically can go a long way to helping them recover. 

This part of the article is specifically for those who are suffering from suicidal tendencies. While it may sound insincere to hear words like “life will get better” from others who do not suffer the same feelings as you do, take it from someone who has felt exactly what you have. I had my own suicide attempt about a year ago, and I am glad every day that I did not go through with it. I have seen the havoc that suicide wrecks on your family and friends and it is horrible. Even if it feels like no one cares, someone does. Just because you feel something, that does not make it true. If at anytime you feel suicidal urges of any sort, refer to either the list of websites below for help, or preferably, reach out to a friend or family member. They will be more than happy to help. Don’t lose hope. Stay strong.
1-800-273-8255 is the suicide prevention number that you can call at any time if you ever feel suicidal.