Hey, I wanted to give an extra trigger warning today because we will be discussing the topic of suicide.

Please take care when listening.

In 2017, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention reported suicide as the 10th leading

cause of death overall in the United States, claiming the lives of over 47,000 people.

Suicide was the second leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 10 and 34,

and the fourth leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 35 and 54.

There were more than twice as many suicides in the United States as there were

homicides. The National Institute of Mental Health lists the warning signs and symptoms

of suicidal behavior as follows. 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 ways to kill themselves. Talking about great guilt or shame.

Talking about feeling trapped or feeling that there are no solutions. Feeling unbearable pain,

both emotional and physical. 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, displaying extreme mood swings, suddenly changing

from very sad to very calm or happy, giving away important possessions, saying goodbye to friends

and family, and putting affairs

in order, such as making a will.

If you or someone you love is having suicidal thoughts or behavior, please call the National

Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273 Talk.

That's 1-800-273-8255.

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