While any time of year can be difficult for someone feeling suicidal, the coming of spring can be a hidden risk. While many individuals experience renewed energy and a feeling of excited anticipation as springtime approaches, often called “spring fever”, individuals who have felt hopeless may feel just enough energy to act on a desire to end their life. While a person at risk for suicide may have been too depressed, hopeless, or lethargic in the winter season (due to shorter days, colder temperatures, and time indoors) to act, the burst of energy other people feel at spring is just enough energy for a person struggling with the sense of hopelessness to formulate a plan (if they don’t already have one) and then implement that plan to end their life. If you know or suspect someone is at risk of suicide, call 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Additional information, such as learning signs that someone may be contemplating suicide, can be found at www.nimh.gov/health/topics/suicide-prevention/html orwww.helpguide.org/mental/suicide_prevention.html Other helpful sites are www.afsp.org (who report sadly that 20% of suicides annually are successfully completed by our military veterans) and www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org. You can save a life.
