For Immediate Release

September 9, 2010

Contact: Bev Carlson
Director of Public Relations
Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska
(402) 978-5654
bcarlson@lfsneb.org

World Suicide Prevention Day – Friday, September 10

September 9, 2010 (Omaha, Nebraska) – Every 16 minutes, another American chooses suicide. September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day.

By recognizing the symptoms, you may be able to save a life. Most people who commit suicide (87%) have some kind of mental disorder. “It is important to follow your instincts when it comes to these situations,” says Pegg Siemek-Asche, State Director of Behavioral Health Services for Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska. “Don’t beat around the bush. If someone you love is exhibiting symptoms—ask directly if they are considering suicide. Listen, acknowledge their pain, and call for help.”

There are common signs, symptoms and risk factors for depression and other mood disorders that increase the risk of suicide. Here are some of the symptoms:

• Threatening to hurt or kill oneself
• Looking for ways to kill oneself, seeking access to pills, weapons or other means
• Talking or writing about death, dying, or suicide
• Expressing hopelessness
• Feeling worthless, no reason for living, no sense of purpose in life
• Feeling rage or anger, seeking revenge
• Acting recklessly or engaging in risky activities, seemingly without thinking
• Feeling trapped, like there is no way out
• Increasing alcohol or drug use
• Withdrawing from family, friends, or society
• Experiencing anxiety or agitation, being unable to sleep or sleeping all the time
• Undergoing dramatic changes in mood

In 2009, Lutheran Family Services Behavior Health programs treated 6,773 clients across Nebraska, including those in crisis situations and those needing ongoing counseling and mental health therapies. LFS therapists are on call for Omaha Police and Douglas County law enforcement officers 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information visit www.lfsneb.org.

Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska (LFS) is a faith-based, non-profit, multi-service human care organization with more than 30 locations. The organization impacts nearly 35,000 people annually through community-based programs in Children Services, Community Services, and Behavioral Health. The work of LFS is supported by caring members of our community whose contributions help make services available for those unable to pay. 87% of all donations go directly to client services.