Healthcare professionals and organizations are educating people on how to help heal and give hope during National Suicide Prevention Month.

Guthrie County Hospital Care Coordinator Addison Enns says if you believe a loved one is exhibiting the warning signs of suicide such as increased alcohol and drug use, aggressive behavior, and withdrawal from friends, family, and others, she explains it’s helpful to be there for that person, “If you suspect that someone is having suicidal thoughts by the possible warning signs that they are showing, however, you’re not sure it’s really important to ask them how they are feeling. This might be uncomfortable for some people but it is important to let that person know that someone cares enough to talk with them about it and assist them in getting the help they need.”

Enns says that people are more likely to feel less depressed, suicidal, overwhelmed and in turn more hopeful by speaking to someone who listens without judgment. Other steps to help prevent suicide are to create a network of resources and individuals of support for that person to help them take positive action and reduce feelings of hopelessness. To hear more from Enns on how to prevent suicide, listen to the Let’s Talk Guthrie County program with her online at raccoonvalleyradio.com.