ANNISTON ARMY DEPOT, Ala. -- September is Suicide Prevention Month. The Mental Health Academy says suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S.

In 2018, there were 48,344 deaths from suicide and it is estimated there were 1.4 million suicide attempts.

These are staggering statistics. In my opinion, one life lost to suicide is too many.

What are some of the signs a person could be at risk?

The individual could vocalize that they do not want to live (I wish I were not born) (Nobody loves me) (I hate myself).

Sometimes this is said through self-talk. Self-talk happens when we talk ourselves into something good or bad.

Under normal circumstances, the person may be gregarious, but, more recently, they prefer to be alone.

Indicators, risk factors or symptoms include:

• Giving away treasured possessions

• Treating people as if they might not see them again

• Buying weapons

• Avoiding social contact, isolating

• Talking about feeling hopeless

• Unusual risky behaviors, such as speeding, drinking and using drugs, or any risky behavior

Using drugs and alcohol can give a person the fortitude to go through with a suicide attempt.

Suicide can run in families. Risk factors include individuals who experience grief or a traumatic situation, including the loss of a family member or close friend.

These risk factors are only indicators and may not led to suicide. Remember, if the behavior is new and not normal, there could be a problem.

If these behaviors are normal for the individual, there may not be a problem.

As an individual, there are preventative methods you can take if you are having suicidal ideations.

Stress is a major cause of suicidal ideations. Acknowledge the things stressing you and employ corrective actions.

In many cases, help can come from professionals. You can self-refer when you feel depressed, stressed or anxious, letting the professional deal with the mental conflict and pain.

The idea is not to lose hope, which is defined by Merriam-Webster as, “desire accompanied by expectation of or belief in fulfillment.”

Progressive Relaxation with Visualization, a technique involving deep breathing and visualizing a positive image, can help. Once you learn this technique, you can employ it any time you feel the need.

Help is closer than you think. Start at your Employee Assistance Program in Bldg. 94 or call 256-240-3379 to make an appointment.

You can also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255).