Groups hope week raises awareness of suicide, prevention

Aug. 28--Despite touching many families, friends and neighbors, suicide still is something often talked about in hushed tones.

Counselors and mental health professionals say open discussion and awareness could be the key to prevention.

In Morgan County, suicides are not uncommon. Toward the end of 2014, there were six self-inflicted deaths involving those between the ages of 20 and 30. Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the U.S., according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, with 41,149 self-inflicted deaths tallied in 2013.

National Suicide Prevention Week will be recognized Sept. 7 to Sept. 17, with Sept. 10 marking National Suicide Prevention Day. To commemorate the day, community members have organized a "Walk Out of the Darkness" to honor loved ones and hopefully save lives.

"It was concerned citizens, school participants, getting together and talking about how we can raise awareness about prevention," said Julia DeGroot, employment specialist for Mental Health Centers of Central Illinois. "We're not trying to raise any money at this point. It's more just about letting people know we're here."

The walk will take place from 8 to 9 p.m.Sept. 10 at Winchester United Methodist Church and will feature speakers and a candlelight vigil. The Morgan-Scott Suicide Prevent Coalition is just one of the organizations that will be involved and representatives said those wanting to learn about or assist with suicide prevention can attend one of its meetings at 3:30 p.m. the second Thursday of each month at Central Christian Church in Jacksonville.

Those who wish to show support during the week of awareness can wear a blue and turquoise ribbon to bring awareness to the campaign. Residents also can keep their porch lights on Sept. 10 in recognition of the event.

At Jacksonville High School, students will be told about suicide prevention and awareness and given the chance to share their thoughts and feelings about the tragedies surrounding suicide. The week is focused on healing wounds and helping others.

"The thing to keep in mind is to allow yourself time to grieve and do not allow yourself to get caught up with 'if only I had'," reads an announcement that will be made Sept. 7 at JHS. "Take care of yourself physically, mentally and emotionally."

Those who feel as though they or someone they know might be suicidal can contact the Mental Health Centers of Central Illinois or the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.

People of all ages, races and classes are susceptible to the mental darkness that can bring on suicidal thoughts, experts said. Family, friends or acquaintances who notice loved ones showing symptoms of suicidal thoughts -- such as giving away possessions, a feeling of peace soon after devastating depression, sudden weight gain, sudden weight loss or offering up permanent goodbyes -- should talk to them about their situation.

"Some people just don't know where to go and we want to make sure they know they have places to go," DeGroot said. "It's OK to ask someone, 'Do you feel like hurting yourself, do you feel suicidal?' It's OK to ask. Sometimes we feel afraid to ask those questions because we feel we're going to put it in their head, but they're thinking these things possibly anyway. You don't have to skirt around it. If they say yes, then it's time to talk to them about it."

Nick Draper can be reached at 217-245-6121, ext. 1223, or on Twitter @nick_draper.

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