Public Spark

Every news channel focuses on the U.S being in a financial fallout. Houses going into foreclosures are increasing stock markets are plummeting. People are struggling with financial stressors and trying to maintain a livelihood. With this difficult economy, we are seeing an increase in mental illnesses and suicide.

Karthik Rajaram, 45, once worked for a major accounting firm and for Sony Pictures. He left a suicide note saying he was in financial trouble and contemplated killing just himself, but ended up killing his entire family as well.

In Ocala, Fla., Roland Gore shot his wife and dog in March and then set fire to the couple’s home, which had been in foreclosure, before killing himself. His case was one of several in which people killed spouses or pets, destroyed property or attacked police before taking their own lives.

Pamela Ross, 57, and her husband were fighting foreclosure on their home. When the sheriff deputies came to serve an eviction notice, they heard Ross shooting herself in the chest.

These are only a few of the tragedies that have surfaced from the financial crisis.

I wrote in previous blogs about the following:

• Myths and Facts of Suicide

• What people need to know about warning signs of suicide

• How to help a suicidal person

If you or a loved one is thinking about suicide:

• It is okay to ask for help:

  Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.

• Receive help from a licensed mental health professional or a doctor.

• Talk to a trusted family member or friend.