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Loss of a loved one through suicide does not have to be endured alone

By Staff | Nov 16, 2010

To the editor:

Last year in Lee County there were 107 people who took their own lives, leaving behind loved ones to struggle with the loss, grief and all those questions that begin with “Why…?”

Too often survivors of suicide loss believe the death of their loved one is somehow shameful or that they or their family is to blame. But research shows that more than 90 percent of people who die by suicide have an underlying, although not always diagnosed, psychiatric illness at the time of their death, most often depression.

The holiday season can be particularly difficult for survivors. To help, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s National Survivors of Suicide Day will be held on November 20 in more than 250 cities around the world, including here in Fort Myers. For other sites visit www.afsp.org for more information.

Please join our Fort Myers community Saturday, Nov. 20, at Edison State College, 8900 College Parkway in the Taeni Student Services Hall Room. 117.

Registration starts at 11:30 with the local program starting at noon. Thanks to our sponsors, Edison State College and Florida Suicide Prevention Coalition Region 8 there will be no charge. Registration is requested at vsnyderclark@gmail.com or Susan at 337-1838. A light lunch will be provided.

Susan Conlin Opheim

Fort Myers