Across our country and right here at home in Clark and Madison Counties, suicide is responsible for more deaths than you may realize. In fact, suicide has risen in the ranks to become a leading cause of death in our nation. It is fourth in the rankings for ages 25-44, and eighth for those ages 45-64.

This is a devastating reality, and it causes a backlash of devastating consequences. For after a suicide has occurred, grieving family, friends and colleagues are left trying to deal with an almost unfathomable kind of loss that is coupled with the worst kind of guilt.

But what is more tragic is the fact that suicide is largely preventable. Yet our society seems to be slipping backwards instead of moving forward in addressing this problem.

In the majority of cases where suicidal tendencies exist, depression is also a factor. For many it makes little sense that anyone would ever want to take his or her own life or could feel “that” bad.

Unless you’ve ever been plagued by feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, utter despair or total loneliness, then it’s hard to imagine the depth of these debilitating emotions. While not a complete list in the least, this is part and parcel of what truly exists in the world of depression.

A person at risk for suicide generally feels great despondency and sadness along with an inability to see hope for improvement in their lives. Their sense of self becomes distorted to the point where they can only focus on their failures and disappointments; negative thoughts and feelings become highly exaggerated.

In their overwhelmed lives and minds, suicide is seen as a way to stop the hurt, stop the pain, stop the feelings of despair. Losses and failures, whether real or imagined, lead vulnerable people down a road of desperate self-destructive acts.

Depression is the most commonly associated diagnosis with suicide. Among those at particular risk are adolescents, young adults, men 25 to 44 years of age and the elderly.

For our teens and young adults, when suicide occurs it’s often because of personal loss, humiliation, rejection or low self worth. It is also associated with drug and alcohol intoxication, recent family deaths, trouble in school or with the law, and even the breakup of a romance. Stressful life events and low levels of communication between parents and children appear to be significant risk factors.

As for men in what should be the prime of life (ages 25-44), there are four times as many males as females who die from suicide. Men of this age group are under great stress to perform, achieve and provide. Unfortunately, the overwhelming stress this can cause is often coupled with a tendency to not seek help when demands become too great.

And the elderly are a special case where we see the greatest risk. They are more vulnerable to suicide because of factors such as social isolation, illness, disability, chronic pain, financial troubles, and significant losses (death of spouse, loss of home, family and friends).

The facts are in front of us. It’s time to recognize the link between depression and suicide. It’s also time to recognize the fact that we now have the knowledge and tools to approach suicide as a preventable problem with realistic opportunities to save many lives.

Mental Health Services for Clark and Madison Counties works tirelessly to reach those most at risk; to bring awareness throughout our communities that confidential and professional help is available.

Don’t spend more time struggling than living. Reach out and call the professional services available in your community. It’s time to step up to the healing pleasures of life.