Campaign aims at protecting suicidal subjects from firearms.

Submitted by West Michigan Community Mental Health.

The Lake-Mason-Oceana Prevent Suicide Coalition is heading up a public awareness campaign urging people to protect friends and family members who are potentially suicidal and have access to firearms.

Statistics show that in Lake, Mason, and Oceana counties, suicides far outnumber homicides.  In this geographical area, firearms are the leading method of suicide.

The coalition’s educational materials advise that putting time and distance between a suicidal person and a gun may save his or her life.  Securing or removing firearms can keep a person safe while concerned loved ones guide the person in seeking help.

A person who is suicidal may be: depressed, angry, impulsive; going through a relationship break-up, legal trouble, or other setback; using drugs or alcohol more; withdrawing from things they used to enjoy; talking about being better off dead; losing hope, acting reckless, or feeling trapped.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s website advises that if you believe a friend or family member is considering suicide, ask him or her directly.  Then call the Lifeline for help: 1-800-273-TALK [8255].

Renew.  Rebuild. Recover. is brought to you by West Michigan Community Mental Health.