Team Tootoo and FOX 2 raising awareness about suicide prevention - Fox 2 News Headlines

Every 13.7 minutes someone in the United States dies by suicide.  When it comes to suicide, staying silent is deadly.  If you are in crisis, call 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

FOX 2 has teamed up with Jordin Tootoo of the Detroit Red Wings to raise awareness about suicide prevention.

The cause hits close to home for Jordin, who lost his brother to suicide in 2002.  Jordin wanted to raise awareness about suicide, so he formed the Team Tootoo fund while playing with the Nashville Predators.  Now he plays for the Red Wings, but his commitment to suicide prevention hasn't changed.

Team Tootoo will have regular fundraising events, which will benefit local charities that support suicide awareness and prevention as well as nonprofits that support children and teens in need.

Follow Team Tootoo here: https://twitter.com/TeamTootooFund

Jordin's message is clear and consistent.  We all go through tough times.  It's important to ask for help.

Untreated depression is the number one cause of suicide.  Depression is an illness that can be treated.   Left untreated, depression can be fatal.  Suicide can be prevented, but knowing the warning signs is key.  Signs can be different for men than women.

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Michigan Chapter tells us warning signs of suicide include:

Observable signs of serious depression:

• Unrelenting low mood
  
• Pessimism
  
• Hopelessness
  
• Desperation
  
• Anxiety, psychic pain and inner tension
  
• Withdrawal
  
• Sleep problems

Increased alcohol and/or other drug use

Recent impulsiveness and taking unnecessary risks

Threatening suicide or expressing a strong wish to die

Making a plan:

• Giving away prized possessions
• Sudden or impulsive purchase of a firearm
• Obtaining other means of killing oneself such as poisons or medications

Unexpected rage or anger

Read more here:  http://www.afsp.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.viewPage&page_id=0519EC1A-D73A-8D90-7D2E9E2456182D66

If you are having thoughts of suicide, call 1-800-273-TALK (8255).