In support of National Suicide Prevention Day, and in light of recent events regarding the Ashley Madison data breach which has resulted in a number of suicides the latest of which included a New Orleans pastor, we at MINES wanted to provide a short, but hopefully helpful list to those that experience incredible moments of stress or seemingly impassable obstacles that can sometimes trigger impulsive actions such as suicide or even destructive, non-lethal behavior.

Here are 5 considerations before you act:

  1. Your family and friends can still be a support to you
    In many cases, under extreme stress, family and friends will still come together to support one another, no matter what the present relationship might look like. Don’t discount the value that these relationships have or their depth in the individual(s) you may reach out to.
  2. You are not alone
    Many people experience the same anxiety, depression, or fear that you are experiencing. It may not seem like it right now, but it’s absolutely true. You have an opportunity here to take a step back and return to the issue later. When you come back, take a moment to reflect on how you could have made your decision and what that would have meant to your future self.
  3. This too shall pass
    All too often, when confronted with an extremely stressful situation, our brains shut down the ability to consider the long term consequences of our decisions. This leads to irrational decision-making. Taking the time to reflect on your thoughts about your feelings can help to provide a greater perspective on the issue.
  4. Remove the option
    If you are feeling hopelessness or despair and are considering suicide options, begin by removing those options. Ask for help from someone to help you remove those options.
  5. Seek help from professionals
    Being in this position is not easy and there is absolutely no shame in asking for help—even in little ways. But if you really do think that you are not strong enough to get through your current situation right now, there are resources available to you.

If you, or someone you know, may need help immediately, there are options.

  1. Call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at (800) 273-8255
  2. Chat with the LifeLine online
  3. Contact your Employee Assistance Program. You can get this information confidentially from Human Resources at work
  4. Go to the nearest Emergency Room. You can locate your nearest hospital here
  5. There are a ton more resources here

The MINES Team