Over 47,000 people die by suicide each year in the United States alone. Multiply that number by 25 and you get the number of attempts at suicide. It is the 2nd leading cause of death in young people ages 10-34. (According to the Center for Disease Control) It strikes people from every status and walk of life, as evident by the daily news.
Thankfully as awareness increases, so do the opportunities to get help. Those suffering from suicidal thoughts can reach out via phone and text to hotlines. They can also find support groups and therapists online. Physicians are more comfortable asking about suicidal thoughts. Now the hope is that more people reach out for help. Spring Center of Hope is there for those who struggle with suicidal thoughts and past attempts but have not found relief with traditional medication and therapies.
Ketamine is remarkably effective at alleviating suicidal thoughts in our patients. Some feel relief after the first infusion, while most do after their initial series of 6 infusions. Our patients then move to maintenance with booster infusions every 1-3 months. They also find success with comprehensive care from their primary physicians, therapists, psychiatrists and loved ones. Ketamine has been a game changer for our patients and it may also be for you or your loved one.
Some Signs and Symptoms of someone thinking about suicide (Information from National Institute of Mental Health website):
- Talking about wanting to die or wanting to kill themselves
- Talking about feeling empty, hopeless, or having no reason to live
- Making a plan or looking for a way to kill themselves, such as searching for lethal methods online, stockpiling pills, or buying a gun
- Talking about great guilt or shame
- Talking about feeling trapped or feeling that there are no solutions
- Feeling unbearable pain (emotional pain or physical pain)
- Talking about being a burden to others
- Using alcohol or drugs more often
- Acting anxious or agitated
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- Changing eating and/or sleeping habits
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
- Taking great risks that could lead to death, such as driving extremely fast
- Talking or thinking about death often
- Displaying extreme mood swings, suddenly changing from very sad to very calm or happy
- Giving away important possessions
- Saying goodbye to friends and family
- Putting affairs in order, making a will
If these warning signs apply to you or someone you know, get help as soon as possible, particularly if the behavior is new or has increased recently. Click here for more information: http://bit.ly/32rapts