Florida Tragedy Brings Awareness to Prevention Resources, Ways To Help

GAINESVILLE, Fla., April 19, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- What is typically a source of cheer and Gator comradery quickly turned into a tragic scene at the University of Florida.

A student jumped to his death from the northwest corner of Ben Hill Griffin Stadium around 7 p.m. Sunday night. The student, who was previously diagnosed with bipolar disorder, was an active member of the Team Florida Cycling club and loved animals.

According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, 90 percent of people who commit suicide have a diagnosable and treatable psychiatric disorder at the time of their death, even though most people with mental illnesses don't die by suicide. While people mistakenly believe that one sole event or circumstance may trigger a suicide attempt, the factors contributing to suicide attempt are complex.

Common warning signs that might precede a friend or family member's suicide attempt include:

• Increased substance abuse
• Recent examples of impulsiveness and taking unnecessary risks
• Expressing a strong wish to die
• Unexpected anger or rage
• Clear signs of serious depression, including hopelessness, desperation, anxiety, withdrawal, and trouble sleeping.

For anyone who thinks a loved one might be contemplating suicide, ask questions to determine whether they are in danger of acting on their feelings. Asking questions such as "Are you thinking about dying?" or "Do you ever feel like just giving up?" won't push someone toward doing anything to hurt themselves, but could provide them with an opportunity to open up about their feelings.

If you believe a friend, family member, or anyone you know is contemplating suicide, there are other resources available. The Counseling and Wellness Center at the University of Florida has a counselor on call for anyone who may need assistance, and the Florida Suicide and Crisis Hotlines have crisis counselors available toll free 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The Florida Suicide Prevention Coalition offers additional information about risk factors and warning signs associated with suicide attempts. The coalition also provides resources for counseling support services for anyone who has had a loved one commit suicide.

Accident Cleaners and Restoration is a crime scene cleanup company that serves locations throughout Florida, including the Gainesville and Ocala areas and the Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and Ponte Vedra areas. We offer resources for anyone affected by crisis.

Contact: Amy Moczynski, 1-877-352-6334, [email protected]

SOURCE Accident Cleaners and Restoration