The losses of legendary fashion icon, Kate Spade, and the world’s most famous foodie and travel companion, Anthony Bourdain, are fresh on the minds of so many people touched by their creativity and power. Many are wondering why a person in their station in life would end up in a space resulting in suicide. Their suicides occur at a time in our society that suicides rates have risen almost 30% since 1999.
Women attempt suicide twice as often as men, the suicide rate is highest during middle age, twenty-eight middle aged women end their lives each day and unfortunately, there is still so much stigma around getting help.
Allie Scott, LPC and Clinical Coordinator of Shield Bearer Counseling Centers states, “The issue is that we think it is our responsibility to handle it all on our own. We feel like we are the only ones going through whatever it is. We sometimes think if we seek help from a professional that means we are imperfect and failing.”
Ms. Scott also shared that relief begins as soon as you reach out for help. “Studies have confirmed what our clients tell us, that as soon as you call for help, you begin to feel better.” A call to Shield Bearer is free and it usually results in a plan specific for you which may include counseling services or other services.
Scott goes on to say, “If you know someone you might think needs help, don’t wait to reach out. Simply ask them how they are doing and let them know that you want to be there for them if they need help.”
Some Warning Signs to Watch For:
Talking about wanting to die or ending one’s life
Mood swings
Searching for a way to die
Isolation, withdrawal and disconnection
Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
Sleeping too little or too much
Feeling trapped in unbearable pain
Change in behavior, living more recklessly
Feeling like they are a burden on others
Increased use of alcohol or other drugs
Increased anxiousness/agitation or rage
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255 or the Harris Center 24-hour Hotline 713-970-7000.
For information about professional counseling services and other programs at local non-profit organization Shield Bearer, contact (281) 894-7222 or visit shieldbearer.org.