One out of four people in the world will be affected by
a mental or neurological disorder at some point in their lives.
Nearly two-thirds of those with diagnosable mental disorders will not
seek treatment. Stigma, discrimination and neglect often prevent
people with mental disorders from receiving the care and treatment they
need.
Mental health is fundamental to a person's overall
health, indispensable to personal well being and instrumental to leading
a balanced and productive life. Stigmatization of people with
mental disorders has persisted throughout history, manifested by bias,
distrust, stereotyping, fear, embarrassment, anger, and/or avoidance.
In Sedgwick County, continuing efforts by the Suicide
Prevention Task Force are focused on community education and increased
public awareness of mental disorders to reduce the stigma attached.
Myths & Reality
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Talking about suicide will cause it to occur.
Suicidal thoughts are not permanent. Seeking help can eliminate
them.
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Drugs and alcohol do not affect mental health.
The rate of suicide in alcoholics is 4-5 times the average - in narcotic
users the rate is 5 times the average.
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Young people and children do not suffer from Mental Disorders.
Anyone can be at risk for suicide - people of all ages, incomes,
cultures, and lifestyles experience suicidal thoughts.
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Suicide is not a public health concern.
An average of 85 Americans die from suicide each day.
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Females and youth do not use firearms as a means of suicide.
Firearms / guns are the main method of suicide for all age groups.
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Older adults are not at risk for suicide.
Although older adults attempt suicide less often than those in other age
groups, they have a higher completion rate - the elderly are more lethal
in their attempts and complete suicide more often.
Warning Signs of Suicide
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Gives away prized possessions to others without explanation
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Talking or joking about the idea of killing themselves
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Withdrawal or isolation from friends and family
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Loss of interest in usual activities
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Life changes, medical illnesses, losses
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Sudden change from extreme depression to being 'at peace'
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A strong interest or preoccupation with death
Contact the following for more information
Suicide Prevention Services
24 hours a day - 7 days a week
316-660-7500
Teen Heartline
24 hours a day - 7 days a week
316-683-7777
Youth Crisis Center
24 hours a day - 7 days a week
316-943-2243
1-800-332-6378
Self Help Network of Kansas
8-5pm Monday - Friday
316-978-3843
1-800-445-0166
SUICIDE IS PREVENTABLE
Don't let your stigmas regarding suicide stop you from seeking help.
©, Copyright, 2004 Sedgwick County Suicide Prevention Taskforce
last update:
05/25/05
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