“Why didn’t I see it coming?”
When someone commits suicide, loved ones often ask themselves why they didn’t notice the warning signs. In retrospect, it may be possible to point to indications that something wasn’t right. But in real time, suicide warning signs aren't always easy to spot.
In an article that was distributed by Massachusetts' Coulter Press, psychiatrist Philip Gottlieb advised parents, teachers and other concerned parties to be on the lookout for subtle signs that might indicate that a child is at increased risk of suicide:
“Look for standard signs of depression, changes in sleep patterns, appetite, not wanting to do things that formerly interested them, a general loss of interest," suggested Gottlieb, medical director of Clinton Hospital’s Geriatric Medical Psychiatry Unit.
Suicide is the third-leading cause of death among people 25 and younger. Most people think suicide would never happen to anyone they know, but if you suspect someone may be at risk, don’t hesitate to get them help.
Labels: suicide, depression, sleep problems
Posted By: Aspen/CRC