As we reported last week, 26 Year old Morgan Francisco took his own life on World Suicide Prevention day. It's a tragedy magnified by the fact that no educational or commemorative event could intervene to stop it.
Initial reports were that Francisco stabbed himself after the cops told him to put on a face mask but the family says that his interaction with the police was just the final straw in what had become a deep and lasting depression.
Now Belize's Mental Health Association is expressing sadness at Francisco's passing claiming that suicide can be preventable once people are aware of the warning signs and knowledgeable about where to get help for themselves or the people they love.
Tonight, the Mental Health Association is sharing some of those warning signs including but not limited to: Withdrawing from social contact and wanting to be left alone, having mood swings, such as being emotionally high one day and deeply discouraged the next, and doing risky or self-destructive things, such as using drugs or driving recklessly.
And in a release this morning they remind the public that suicidal feelings are temporary. And say quote: "If you feel hopeless or that life's not worth living anymore, remember that treatment can help you regain your perspective - and life will get better. Take one step at a time and reach out for help." End quote.
