Where to turn in times of need.
Medina County Coalition for Suicide Prevention
Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in Ohio, with an average of three deaths each day. A reported 1,200 Ohioans die each year by suicide, yet suicide still carries a stigma as something that should not be discussed. Alternative Paths, in collaboration with many community partners developed the Medina County Coalition for Suicide Prevention, meant to be a catalyst to bring about change in attitudes and perceptions regarding stigma related to suicide, mental illness, and substance use. The focus is to become a resource to educate community residents of all ages about how to prevent suicide and support survivors after a death by suicide.
The Medina County Coalition for Suicide Prevention’s mission is to provide the opportunity for allied groups to pursue coordinated strategies to educate, increase public awareness that suicide is a public health problem, and empower people to seek help for themselves and others.
Annually, the Coalition sponsors two major events, an annual youth suicide prevention sticker and poster contest and the Step Up to Prevent Suicide Community Walk. Details regarding these events can be found on the agency’s website or events page.
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Suicide Warning Signs
When people are thinking of ending their lives, they generally feel hopeless and experience great emotional pain. In many cases, the person is suffering from depression which is a very treatable illness. If you or someone you know exhibits several of the suicide warning signs listed below, immediate action is required.
Talking or writing about death or suicide
Withdrawing from family, friends, and activities
Loss of interest in anything the person used to enjoy
Statements of hopelessness or worthlessness
Feeling strong anger or rage
Feeling trapped – like there is no way out of a situation
Abusing alcohol or drugs
Noticeable changes in eating or sleeping habits
Performing poorly at work or school
Exhibiting a change in personality
Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities – seemingly without thinking
Seeing no reason for living or having no sense of purpose in life
The person has made a previous suicide attempt
The person is planning for suicide or making final plans i.e. giving away prized possessions, writing a will, etc.
Take the person seriously. At least 75% of people give off warning signs ahead of time, hoping that someone will intervene.
Listen to the problems the person is experiencing without being judgmental.
Ask if they are having suicidal thoughts if you suspect that they are. A person can not talk someone into suicide by asking about suicidal thoughts. You are validating their feelings.
Explore the possibilities of getting help. The suicidal person may be looking at life so narrowly, that they are no longer able to see alternatives and need someone else to point them out.
Do not send the person to get help. Go with him or her. Do not leave the person alone.
Remove any means of suicide, i.e. guns, knives, pills, etc.
Realize that emergency rooms treat suicidal persons and that 911 is a logical tool if you need assistance.
For immediate assistance, call 911. For local assistance, call Alternative Paths, Inc. at (330) 725-9195 or call The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).