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KIRKSVILLE, MO -- Sunday marks National Suicide Prevention Week. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among 18 to 24-year-olds and accounts for 1.3 percent of all deaths in the United States annually.

Suicide and depression can be very hard to bring up in conversation.  Many people feel embarrassment and loneliness so they keep their emotions boiled up inside.  Mental Health Councilor Joe Hamilton says the most important thing to do is talk.

“With suicide in particular, people get really nervous about bringing up the subject” said Hamilton.  “What we want to make sure is that people are open to talking about it.  Often times, the person finds it’s a relief and they can talk about it and that they have someone willing to listen.”

Hamilton recommends talking to a councilor or mental health expert.  If you are shy and are scared to talk to a professional, you should at least talk to a friend.

Here are some signs that someone may be suicidal:

- Threatening to hurt or kill oneself or talking about wanting to hurt or kill someone
- Looking for ways to kill oneself by seeking access to firearms, available pills, or other means
- Talking or writing about death, dying, or suicide when these actions are out of the ordinary for the person
- Feeling hopeless
- Feeling rage or uncontrolled anger or seeking revenge
- Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities seemingly without thinking
- Feeling trapped like there’s no way out
- Increasing alcohol or drug use
- Withdrawing from friends, family and society
- Feeling anxious, agitated or unable to sleep or sleeping all the time
- Experiencing dramatic mood changes
- Giving away personal possessions that have meaning

There are many websites and hotlines that can help as well.

If you are in need of immediate help, you should contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-TALK.

To view statistics and find other forms of help, visit CHADS Coalition website.

If you are grieving over the loss of a loved one who took their own life, visit the Karla Smith Foundation website.