Watch for risk factors of suicide

By Boyd Scoggins, ANAD EAPSeptember 17, 2020

ANNISTON ARMY DEPOT, Ala. -- September is suicide prevention month and the Anniston Army Depot Employee Assistance Program would like to remind employees that help is available for employees and their family members.

While the Employee Assistance Program is available to all ANAD employees, sometimes employees will not self-refer when they are going through difficult situations.

Many times, the warning signs of suicide are present when someone is at risk but family, friends, acquaintances and coworkers can miss these signs.

One of the best ways to reduce the risk or prevent suicide is to know the risk factors and warning signs.

Risk Factors

• Hopelessness

• Easy access to lethal means

• Stigma associated with asking for help

• Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies

• Major physical illnesses

• Previous suicide attempt(s)

• Family history of suicide

• Alcohol and other substance use disorders

• Mental disorders, particularly mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders and certain personality disorders

Warning Signs

• Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly

• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge

• Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain

• Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online or buying a gun

• Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves

• Withdrawing or isolating themselves

• Talking about being a burden to others

When risk factors and/or warning signs are identified, we can offer support though programs in our workplace.

Here at Anniston Army Depot, we are fortunate to have trained professionals in our employee assistance program who can help in the event someone may be at risk.

Employee Assistance Program personnel at ANAD can be reached by calling Exts. 3182, 5785, 3379 or 6294.