No one should have to cope with suicide loss alone
Suicide is a public health issue. It is a topic that most people find uncomfortable to talk about not only in public, but within their own family. For those left behind, it is a loss that is complex and painful to reveal.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention estimates someone takes their own life every 15 minutes. Worldwide, approximately 1 million people die by suicide each year. This represents a global mortality rate of one death every 40 seconds. In the United States, more than 34,000 people die by suicide each year.
In 2010, there were 119 suicides in Lee County, with the highest demographic being white middle-aged men. Of those deaths, 20 percent occurred in Cape Coral which does not include those families residing in this city who lost a loved one to suicide in another city or state.
Suicide leaves behind loved ones to struggle with the loss, grief and all of those questions that begin with “Why…?” “Why did this happen?” “How do I cope?” “Where can I find support?” For every person who dies by suicide, there are numerous survivors left behind to cope with the tragic loss. Suicide is often not talked about, and that can be isolating for a family dealing with the loss of a loved one.
Edison State College will be hosting the 13th annual International Survivors of Suicide Day on Saturday, Nov. 19, beginning at 11 a.m.
Registration will begin at 10:30 a.m. The event will be held in the Taeni Student Services Hall, Building S
There will be more than 250 cities around the world hosting an event that will bring families together to acknowledge their grief and remember those that they have lost to suicide. This is a day of support and healing for bereavement after suicide.
If you have lost a family member or friend to suicide, know that you are not alone. For some survivors, this event may be the first time they will share their grief. On this day, you will connect with other survivors of suicide loss and learn how they have survived this tragedy as well as understanding the powerful emotions associated with this loss.
For further information or to register for this free event, send an e-mail to vsnyderclark@gmail.com or call 541-1151.
Teresa Tate
Florida Suicide
Prevention Coalition