DID YOU KNOW…
Suicide is the eighth leading cause of death in the United States, accounting for more than 1% of all deaths.

Most people who commit suicide have a mental or emotional disorder. Indeed, 30% to 70% of suicide victims suffer from major depression or bipolar disorder. Eight out of 10 suicidal persons give some sign of their intentions. Symptoms that may signal a need for help include:

Verbal suicide threats such as, "Maybe I won't be around"

Expressions of hopelessness and helplessness

Daring or risk-taking behavior

Depression Giving away prized possessions

Lack of interest in future plans.

The following are steps you can take if you think someone is suicidal:

Trust your instincts.

Talk with the person about your concerns and listen.

Ask direct questions without being judgmental.

Get professional help.

Do not leave the person alone.

Do not swear to secrecy.

Do not counsel the person yourself.

Every year in Georgia, suicide claims the lives of approximately 900 people. Other statistics related to suicide in Georgia include:

69% of suicides involved firearms

10.9 out of 100,000 deaths are related to suicide

Suicide is the third most common cause of death among individuals 15-34 years of age

9% of high school students have reported a suicide attempt

Approximately 2,800 people are hospitalized due to a suicide attempt each year

Hospitalization costs due to self-inflicted injuries is more than $32 million annually

If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, call 1-800-SUICIDE or 1-800-273-TALK.

For more information about the topic of suicide or other mental health issues, please contact Sarah Schwartz at 678-904-1970 or go to Mental Health America of Georgia's website at www. mhageorgia.org or its blog at www.mhageorgia.blogspot. com.