Suicide: What To Watch Out For And How To Prevent It

From The November 11 Segment On 7News At 11 A.M., Featuring Dr. Mark Elliott

POSTED: 12:35 pm MST November 11, 2008

UPDATED: 1:04 pm MST November 12, 2008

Colorado has a higher than average suicide rate and with recent economic conditions and foreclosure crisis, more people in our community may experience depression and need help.

More people in Colorado die from suicide than automobile accidents. That’s why Littleton is working on suicide prevention, collaboratively with the City of Littleton schools, Littleton Fire and Littleton Hospital, to help community members at large of any age.

Some of the risk factors include depression, bi-polar disorder or other mental illness. A significant loss like the death of a loved one, a divorce or a break-up can also lead to suicide.

People at risk for suicide may talk about it or talk about dying. They may also abuse drugs or alcohol, and make statements about hopelessness, worthlessness or helplessness. Other warning signs include unusual purchases, mood swings, giving away prized possessions or withdrawal from friends or family.

To help someone at risk for suicide, listen to them and don’t be judgmental. Take suicide threats seriously, and get them professional help as soon as possible.

Dr. Mark Elliott, MD
Medical Director
Littleton Adventist Hospital Emergency Department

Resources:
The Center for Behavioral Health 303-778-5774
The Suicide Hotline 1-800-273-TALK
Adams County Community Reach Center 303-853-3500
Aurora Mental Health Center 303-617-2300
The Mental Health Center, Boulder and Broomfield Counties 303-447-1665
Mental Health Center of Denver 303-504-6500
Arapahoe/Douglas Mental Health Network 303-730-3303
Larimer County Center for Mental Health 970-494-4300
Jefferson County Center for Mental Health 303-425-0300
Midwestern Colorado Mental Health Center 970-249-9694
Centennial Mental Health Center 970-522-4549
Pikes Peak Mental Health 719-635-7000
Colorado West Regional Mental Health, Inc. 970-945-2583
San Luis Valley Comprehensive Community Mental Health Center 719-589-3671
Southwest Colorado 970-247-5245
Southeast Mental Health Services 719-336-7501
Southeast Colorado 719-336-7501
West Central Mental Health Center 719-275-2351

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