National Suicide Prevention Week concluded Saturday, but a Sturgeon Bay psychologist says discussing resources and raising awareness about signs of suicidal behavior is essential to do year-round. Dr. Dennis White notes that suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the United States and is preventable in nearly every single case. He shares some examples of suicidal behavior that should be taken seriously.
Other signs and symptoms include a sense of hopelessness, uncontrolled anger, acting recklessly, feeling trapped, dramatic mood changes, or feeling no purpose in life. Dr. White adds that suicide is preventable, and most suicidal people desperately want to live but cannot find alternatives to their problems. He recommends that you talk about suicide because talking about it does not cause it to happen. Help is available at your local mental health clinic or by calling the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.
Dr. White's entire Mental Health Minute is below.