Coming Out of the Dark

Depression, along with other mental disorders, is one of the largest risk factors for suicide. In fact, 90% of people who commit suicide have a psychiatric condition. And suicide is the 11th leading cause of death for Americans.

That’s why one Long Island woman, Patrice Gans, created the documentary “Out of the Darkness” to showcase how depression and suicide touch everyone’s lives.

For Gans, it was not difficult to find people to interview for her 16-minute video. Suicide rates more than tripled between the mid-1950s and late 1970s and have been steadily rising since, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Suicide is the third highest cause of death among 15- to 24-year-olds, and more than 32,000 others will die by suicide this year.

If you or someone you know talks about ending their life or starts giving away possessions, take those warning signs seriously. The most important thing to know is that getting help can always improve your condition. Help yourself or a loved one get the depression treatment he or she needs.

How have you been able to overcome thoughts of suicide? [Newsday]