Preventing Suicide "If you have the willingness to deal with your own discomfort of being around somebody who tried to commit suicide, that in itself is a great gift." - Anonymous Always take suicide threats seriously. In the last 25 years, suicide has grown at an alarming rate - especially among teenagers and older adults. If someone you care about shows these danger signs, don't delay seeking help from a suicide prevention hotline: Do they seem preoccupied with death or talk about how things will be better when they're gone? Do they express feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, or despair that they will ever feel better? Has there been an increase in their use of drugs or alcohol? Are they taking unnecessary risks with their health or safety? Have they shown you a hoard of pills or a weapon they've acquired? Are they giving away prized possessions? Do they seem to be saying good-by to friends or family? Have they suddenly become cheerful or calm? Have they made previous threats or attempts at suicide? Suicide is often linked to depression, a medical condition that can be successfully treated.   WHAT IS DEPRESSION? | WHO HAS DEPRESSION? TREATMENT OPTIONS | RESOURCES & LINKS ABOUT THIS PROGRAM | DEPRESSION MAIN PAGE   BACK TO HEALTHWORKS | RETURN TO TV HOME PAGE © 1999 Prairie Public Broadcasting, Inc.