INCREASING SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS FOR CAREGIVERS

National Suicide Prevention Week, this year from Sunday September 8, to Saturday September 14, 2019 is an annual week-long campaign in the United States to inform and engage health professionals and the general public about suicide prevention and warning signs of suicide.

It’s difficult to NOT become aware of any suicide incidents within recent years either of personal knowledge or that has not been highlighted in media accounts.  As REGIUS Inc. will always attempt to promote safety and security methods in as many avenues that could be helpful, increasing or at the least, reinforcing, suicide prevention awareness for all and especially caregivers who guard our gems seems like “No-brainer”.

According to the CDC suicide deaths in adolescents ages 13 to 19 years continue to rise as a leading cause of death.

We, as parents and our CAREGIVERS including but not limited to Nannys, Au Pairs and baby sitters must recognize the possible and potential Risk factors. These factors often include:

Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves;
Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live;
Talking about feeling trapped or being in unbearable pain;
Talking about being a burden to others;
Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs;
Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly;
Sleeping too little or too much;
Withdrawing or isolating themselves;
Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge;
Exhibiting extreme mood swings.

Additionally, there may be a history of mental disorders, particularly mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and certain personality disorders
such as

Alcohol and other substance use disorders;
Hopelessness;
Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies;
History of trauma or abuse;
Major physical illnesses;
Previous suicide attempt(s) or a family history of suicide.

These risk factors by no means are necessarily singular or all inclusive and if you or someone you know exhibits any of these, seek help by calling the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline @ 1-800-273-8255

The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.