Suicide Prevention Month a reminder help is available
In the Thursday, Sept. 4, edition of the Butler Eagle, we learned about an annual event to remember those lost to suicide and to help share resources to prevent further death.
Mental illness in general and suicide in particular are very difficult subjects to talk about. But talking about them is essential, because reducing the stigma around mental illness makes it more likely for people to seek help.
Many people at Wednesday’s event in Diamond Park in Butler had family members or friends who died by suicide. One family, Gary, Linda and Megan Hundertmark, brought a three-legged table to exemplify the experience of losing a family member to suicide.
“The table has four legs, but when one leg is suddenly removed, the table loses its balance. But gradually, over time, the table learns how to stand on three legs. After being involved in classes, walks and discussions with other parents and siblings, we learned again to stand on three legs,” Linda Hundertmark said.
Another person, Jennifer Christy, spoke about her own experience dealing with suicidal ideation and how she got help.
“I was reminded that we all need a little extra help sometimes. I needed a reset and a medication adjustment, and I needed to be in an extra safe place for a little while. And that’s OK,” Christy said.
Being open about our experiences lessens the stigma around mental illness, and that saves lives.
If you or someone you know needs help, the national suicide and crisis lifeline in the U.S. is available by calling or texting 988. There is also an online chat at 988lifeline.org.
— JK
