decorahnews.com continues its series of suicide related stories

(decorahnews.com continues its reports on suicide prevention in a Q&A with Northeast Iowa Behavioral Health Clinical Director Rebecca Loven, a licensed mental health counselor)

How should we respond to someone who we might think is suicidal?

"The safest action is to bring the person to a professional.  A first line would be ourselves at Northeast Iowa Behavioral Health.  Another good option is to access the person's primary-care physician/health-care provider.  If it is after normal office hours, the best option is the Emergency Room.  These options assume the suicidal person is willing to access services, which is often the case, especially if we are supportive, listening, and caring for the individual.

What resources are available for a parent with a child having severe emotional problems? Like, a how-to approach. Also, is there a Web resource for dealing with the same problem?  

"It depends on the problem.  There are number of good websites for all kinds of problems we encounter with children, but again, if there are severe emotional problems, probably the best course is to access a treatment provider."

What are key warning signs of suicide?

"Depression is primary.  This can look like sadness, but it can also look like irritability or even anger, and can include sleep changes, isolation, or agitated behavior.  You can also see anxiety.  There is a strong connection of suicidal thoughts with substance abuse.  If someone is giving away possessions, saying "good-bye" to family or friends, and perhaps more overtly, talking about suicide and ways to accomplish it, you will want to access a treatment provider."

Is there something specifically to be aware of at particular ages, or groups?

"The highest rate of suicide used to be among the elderly (age 85 and older), but in 2007, middle-aged people (age 45 to 64) became the age group with the highest rate, and they are maintaining that so far."

What about the language we use as we talk about suicide?

"The language needs to strike a balance between sensitivity and frankness.  We need to recognize the natural fear and anxiety which discussion of suicide brings for anyone with a loved one struggling with the issue.  However, we also recognize the need for open discussion and awareness of the signs as well as strategies to support someone dealing with a suicide crisis."

What advice can you give to people who say "I feel uncomfortable asking someone if they are suicidal?"  What suggestions can you give on the best way to approach someone?

"There is no wrong way to ask except, 'You would never think of killing yourself, would you?'  That implies you really want the person to reassure you by saying 'No' because it is too difficult for you to handle.  Other than this exception, whatever way you ask will be the right way.   The important keys to remember are to listen to how the person is feeling, to provide support, to ask the hard question, and to get the person to a treatment provider for assessment and help."

Rebecca Loven