Suicide Prevention Week
September 6th-12th, 2009
Safe Communities launched a public education campaign during Suicide Prevention Week (September 6-12) releasing materials that offer clear guidance on how to prevent access to methods of suicide from persons we’re concerned may be contemplating suicide.
Suicide is often preventable; depression is treatable; many tragedies can be avoided with education, treatment and support.
In recognition of Suicide Prevention Week, Safe Communities and HOPES held a news conference on the steps of the City/County Building in Madison. Flanked by HOPES quilts featuring names and photos of Wisconsin residents who died by suicide, news conference organizers offered condolences to those who have lost loved ones. They also offered resources to those concerned about a friend or family member.
During the news conference new public education materials entitled “Preventing Access to Methods of Suicide” were released through Safe Communities and partners. According to Cheryl Wittke of Safe Communities, this brochure offers guidelines on how to limit access to methods of deliberate self-harm in an attempt to reduce the odds that a person attempting suicide will use a highly lethal means. Research demonstrates that taking actions such as locking or removing guns from the home and reducing amounts of drugs available keeps “lethal means” out of the hands of persons contemplating suicide and markedly reduces their risk of completing suicide.
Suicide is often an impulsive act. According to a study of those who attempted suicide once, only 4.9% went on to complete suicide. Keeping guns locked up or out of the home, and ensuring that only small amounts of medications are accessible can help someone who is experiencing a suicidal crisis survive, said Wittke.
Gail Scott and her son, PJ Chamberlain, shared their experience working through PJ’s suicidal crises, and how keeping their home safe from “lethal means” helped save his life.
Pat Derer, co-founder of HOPES and survivor of her son’s suicide, offered condolences and support to those who have lost loved ones to suicide. HOPES is a Wisconsin-based organization of people who have lost family and friends to suicide, and have come together to work on prevention.