By Karl Rosston, Montana Suicide Prevention Coordinator
how to save a life Know the Signs of Suicide and What to Ask Every two hours, a person under the age of 25 completes suicide in the United States.
Ryan vanluchen, 1979-1987
Montana is ranked number two in the nation for suicides for youth 10-24 years old.
uicide is a serious public health matter that may affect many of us in our lifetime. In order to help prevent future losses, we must be willing to talk about what is very difficult for many. Thoughts of suicide are dangerous. All persons with thoughts of suicide should be taken seriously. While thinking about suicide may be difficult if not impossible to prevent, preventing thoughts of suicide from moving to suicidal actions is possible. Almost all persons at risk actively invite help and keep within them the desire to live. All forms of help-seeking about suicide need to be encouraged. A decision to live is far more likely when a person at risk can make it in the company of a helper who is comfortable talking about suicide. The simple and yet profound first approach to any person at risk should be, “Let’s talk.” We need everyone, working together, to bring an end to the long history of youth suicides in our communities. The first step is to know the warning signs. Second is to ask the question, “Are you thinking of suicide?” And third, connect the person with professional help. It’s simple, and we can all play a part in saving a life of a family member, friend, neighbor, co-worker or stranger. ■
406-439-8748 / 800 E 6th Ave / Helena
child safety:
have the conversation learn how at ryanunited.org Ryan United is a 501 ( c ) 3 Non-profit Organization
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Ryan United
DECEMBER 2010
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