Give a Helping Hand To Prevent Suicide

Picture for a moment a glass of water, full to the brim. Imagine what happens when somebody adds one, maybe two, more drops.

When the water spills, do you look at the glass and say it obviously should have been better balanced and able to hold more? Do you blame those last few drops for the overflow? Or do you think about what could have kept the cup from getting so full in the first place?

Now picture that glass is held by someone you care about, and they’re reaching out for help. Who among us wouldn’t take a moment to pour out some water and provide some relief?

Every 40 seconds. That is how often someone dies by suicide, coming close to 800,000 deaths globally per year. Each September, suicide survivors and suicide prevention professionals and advocates around the world dedicate Suicide Prevention Month to raising awareness and – more importantly – taking action to fight this increasing public health issue.

Suicide is one of the most preventable kinds of deaths, if we take action. Here are a few ways you can learn how to help someone in need.

Sign up for free QPR training

QPR stands for “question, persuade, and refer” – three simple steps to help save a life from suicide. Just as people train in CPR and the Heimlich maneuver, you can train in QPR to recognize the warning signs of a suicide crisis and get someone help. Register now for an open session.

Bookmark local and national resources

Spend 10 minutes familiarizing yourself with the crisis resources available to us in Arizona. Invest some time reviewing the suicide prevention suggestions prepared by local and national organizations.

Then, take a quick 30 seconds to put the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800-273-8255) into your phone contacts. You might even call the number yourself so you can explain the process if you need to.

Join with your community

Register for the Arizona Out of the Darkness Experience, organized by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, to join with people who have experienced suicide loss or dealt with thoughts of suicide, and others who want to make progress in the fight to save lives.

Suicide is a serious topic, but it doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. Over the past several months, we’ve all explored creative ways to reach out and connect. Let’s use that creativity and stay ready to learn and help. Those people reaching out will thank you for making their glass a little less full. I was once one of them, and without resources like these, I wouldn’t be here today. You can make a difference.