My brother’s silent cry for help.
Looking back, I can clearly see the signs. I did not realize, at the time, my baby brother was in crisis. I should have known. I often think that, if I had not moved to another state, I would have seen the signs. My brother and I were so close and the last time I saw him I knew he was sad. I could not find the right words to start a meaningful conversation about it. Unfortunately, I was not aware of certain things, until after his death. Things may have been different, if I had only known.
According to the American Foundation for Suicide prevention, the warning signs of suicide include :
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs.
- Looking for a way to end their lives, such as searching online for methods.
- Withdrawing from activities.
- Isolating from family and friends.
- Sleeping too much or too little.
- Visiting or calling people to say goodbye.
- Giving away prized possessions.
- Aggression
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Anger/agitation
- Relief/sudden improvement.
My brother had each sign and risk factor that is underlined!!
Risk Factors:
- Mental Health conditions.
- Substance use.
- Traumatic brain injury.
- Lethal means such as fire arms or drugs.
- Prolonged stress, bullying, relationship problems, or unemployment.
- Stressful life events like divorce, financial problems, loss, or life transitions.
- Exposure to suicide.
- Previous suicide attempts.
- Family history of suicide.
- Childhood abuse, neglect, or trauma.
I had no idea that my brother owned a gun. His wife said it turned up the year before he died. I had no clue he was being bullied and harassed by my ex-husband. I wish someone would have told me. He had just got a big promotion at work and bought his first house. He was suppose to be moving the morning he died. His sudden improvement in mood was masked by the joy from purchasing a new home. He even had his funeral arrangements written out that I saw for the first time, after he died. His wife found them. He gave prized possessions away to friends, but everyone thought it was because he was moving. He had attempted suicide twice before but no one expected it to happen then. He seemed so happy in his last days and everything was falling into place and going so well. Sadly, I did not know the warning signs of suicide, until it was too late. I discovered the (afsp) American Foundation for Suicide Prevention after his death. The afsp website is a great source of information for survivors, and others affected by suicide or suicidal thoughts. Check them out at afsp.org I wish I could go back in time, with the information I have now. Regret and grief are a hard pill to swallow. I felt so helpless and thought talking about suicide, with my brother, would encourage it. Boy was I wrong! I have since learned that is a myth and talking about it can relieve a person’s suicidal thoughts.
People who complete suicide typically display at least two or more signs or risk factors. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the US and it is 100% preventable. Learn the signs! BREAK THE STIGMA
I urge everyone to learn the signs of suicide and start having those uncomfortable conversations that count. It might just save life!!!
If you or a loved one are struggling with thoughts of suicide please reach out! Help is available.
Call 1-800-273-8255Available 24 hours everyday
Information about the signs of suicide, risk factors, and images were found at afsp.org
Do it for Drew 13 