According to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, between five and 11 deaths in Douglas County have been attributed to suicide each year in recent years. Those who have died have included teens and adults.

“Each of those people left behind family members and friends whose lives will never be the same,” said Marcia Epstein, director at Headquarters Counseling Center in Lawrence. “Some of the many common reactions for those friends and family members are sadness, guilt, anger and confusion.”

But most suicide deaths are preventable, she said, if help is found.

Suicide prevention authorities say 80 percent of those who commit suicide show warning signs before acting.

“Regardless, the only person who has the responsibility for a death by suicide is the person who died,” she said. “Suicide is never someone else’s fault.”

Here’s a look at assessing risk and where to get help:

Warning signs of suicide

• Situations involving loss.
• Long-lasting painful emotions.
• Significant changes in behavior.
• Thoughts about not being capable of handling one’s feelings and circumstances.

Signs of high suicide risk

• Direct talk or hints of suicide.
• Having a plan for suicide.
• Access to firearms.
• Previous suicide attempts.
• “Tying up loose ends” by making arrangements for family members, giving away possessions, and saying final goodbyes.

How to respond

• Ask directly if the person is considering suicide.
• Show your concern by talking and listening.
• Get help from someone trained in suicide prevention.

Resources

These resources are available 24 hours daily:

• Douglas County Fire & Medical, 911.
• Lawrence Memorial Hospital Emergency Department, 749-6162.
• Kansas University Medical Center Poison Control Center, (800) 332-6633.
• Headquarters Counseling Center, 841-2345 and 594-6490 from Baldwin. Assistance is available in other areas through the National Hopeline Network, (800) SUICIDE (784-2433).