April 7, 2013 Motorcycle Ride for the Suicide Prevention

On April 7, 2013, The City of Pahokee will be hosting a Motorcycle Ride and Picnic to benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.  This is a charity which is very important to me.  We can effectively change and save lives by recognizing suicidal behavior.  All it takes is 'awareness'.  Please join me for this event.  More information at www.suiciderun.net

Who is at risk for suicide?

Suicide does not discriminate. People of all genders, ages, and ethnicities are at risk for suicide. But people most at risk tend to share certain characteristics. The main risk factors for suicide are:

• Depression, other mental disorders, or substance abuse disorder
• A prior suicide attempt
• Family history of a mental disorder or substance abuse
• Family history of suicide
• Family violence, including physical or sexual abuse
• Having guns or other firearms in the home
• Incarceration, being in prison or jail
• Being exposed to others' suicidal behavior, such as that of family members, peers, or media figures.

The risk for suicidal behavior also is associated with changes in brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, including serotonin, which is also associated with depression. Lower levels of serotonin have been found in the brains of people with a history of suicide attempts.
Many people have some of these risk factors but do not attempt suicide. Suicide is not a normal response to stress. It is however, a sign of extreme distress, not a harmless bid for attention.
How can suicide be prevented?

Effective suicide prevention is based on sound research. Programs that work take into account people's risk factors and promote interventions that are appropriate to specific groups of people.

Research has shown that mental and substance abuse disorders are risk factors for suicide. Therefore, many programs focus on treating these disorders in addition to addressing suicide risk specifically.

Psychotherapy, or "talk therapy," can effectively reduce suicide risk.  There are also medications that can help with suicidal tendencies.

http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/suicide-in-america/how-can-suicide-be-prevented.shtml

As always, family, friends and co-workers, are the first to notice irrational behavior.  Learning about the risks factors associated with suicide should be a priority for everyone.  Suicide is 100% preventable. 

http://www.afsp.org/