Why, you may ask, is COMBO posting an article about suicide? Because we have lost far too many of our music community just this year to suicide. This includes musicians – young and old, their children, and other members of their families. Believe us, suicide is such a final solution to a temporary problem. Please wait – have patience. Pray. Go for a walk. Have a bowl of ice cream. Above all, CALL SOMEONE to talk. Be honest. Tell them what’s going through your head. If you are young, your parents will understand and will help you to work it out. If not them, your favorite teacher. Even a stranger on the street will be compassionate if you just let them know what the problem is. If the feelings get too strong, don’t hesitate to CALL SOMEONE. The people you leave behind will be forever troubled, asking themselves, “Why didn’t I see the hurt? Why couldn’t I have helped?” “Why didn’t I help?” Ask for help first. Please.
Suicide is a major public health concern. Over 41,000 people die by suicide each year in the United States. Knowing the risk factors for suicide and who is at risk can help reduce the suicide rate.
24-hour National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:
1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Veterans can call the Lifeline and press “1” to be routed to the Veterans’ Suicide Prevention Hotline
En Espanol: 1-888-628-9454
Seek help as soon as possible by contacting a mental health professional or by calling the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK if you or someone you know exhibits any of the following signs:
● Threatening to hurt or kill oneself or talking about wanting to hurt or kill oneself
● Looking for ways to kill oneself by seeking access to firearms, available pills, or other means
● Talking or writing about death, dying, or suicide when these actions are out of the ordinary for the person
● Feeling hopeless
● Feeling rage or uncontrolled anger or seeking revenge
● Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities – seemingly without thinking
● Feeling trapped – like there’s no way out
● Increasing alcohol or drug use
● Withdrawing from friends, family, and society
● Feeling anxious, agitated, or unable to sleep or sleeping all the time
● Experiencing dramatic mood changes
● Seeing no reason for living or having no sense of purpose in life
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/suicide-prevention/suicide-prevention-studies/warning-signs-of-suicide.shtml
Developed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).