National Suicide Prevention Week runs through Sept. 13

News release from Switchboard of Miami:

Did you know that, in the United States, one person commits suicide every 16 minutes? Or that it’s estimated that more than 5 million people in the United States have been directly affected by a suicide?

Experts believe that most suicidal individuals do not want to die -- they just want to end the pain they are experiencing. Professionals also know that suicidal crises tend to be brief. When suicidal behaviors are detected early, lives can be saved. September 7 through September 13 is National Suicide Prevention Week. Please join Switchboard of Miami, Inc. in supporting suicide prevention.

While there is no single predictor of suicide, there are some warning signs. These may include:

1. Talking about suicide or death.

2. Being preoccupied with death and dying.

3. Withdrawing from friends or social activities.

4. Experiencing a recent, severe loss or threat of one.

5. Displaying drastic changes in behavior.

6. Losing interest in hobbies, work, school, etc.

7. Unexpectedly creating a will or final arrangements.

8. Giving away prized possessions.

9. Previously attempting suicide.

10. Taking unnecessary risks by being reckless or impulsive.

11. Losing interest in one’s personal appearance.

12. Increased use of alcohol or drugs.

13. Expressing a sense of hopelessness.

14. Facing a humiliating situation or failure.

15. Having a history of violence or hostility.

16. An unwillingness to "connect" with potential helpers.

If you or someone you know experiences any of these, please contact 1-800-784-2433 immediately. Our confidential services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Together we can reduce the number of lives shaken by a needless and tragic death.

Sincerely,

Catherine F. Penrod, CEO

Switchboard of Miami, Inc.