Health Services offers reminder of suicide prevention resources

Deschutes County Health Services – Suicide Prevention Program would like to remind everyone of some helpful resources as we enter the holiday season. While the holidays can be a season of cheer, it can also be a difficult season for those who have lost a loved one—whether to suicide or other means. Suicide is a public health issue and we all can help prevent suicide by promoting our local suicide prevention resources.

Local suicide prevention resources are available at www.deschutes.org/suicideprevention or on the Central Oregon Suicide Prevention Alliance’s website at www.preventsuicideco.org. The Deschutes County Crisis Line is also available 24/7 at (541) 322-7500, select option 9.

Suicide is a very complicated act. No one single thing causes it. However, in many cases, a mental health condition can be part of it, and these conditions are treatable. It is important to reach out for help. There are signs that may mean someone is at risk for suicide. The Suicide Warning Signs are:

• Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself.
• Looking for a way to kill oneself, such as searching online or buying a gun.
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
• Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.
• Talking about being a burden to others.
• Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.
• Action anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly.
• Sleeping too little or too much.
• Withdrawing or feeling isolated.
• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.
• Displaying extreme mood swings.