If a large group of us were in a room and we were asked if we thought suicide was a problem in our first responder world, most if not all of us, would agree that it is a serious problem. That agreement is the “Stepping Up” part. That, at least, gives us hope that we can change things for the future.
However, how many of us would get out of our beds, our chairs, or our comfortable and safe places to go to someone’s side who is experiencing suicidal tendencies? How many of us would sit with that person, not let them out of your sight, and “be there” for them until you could get them the help they needed? That is the “Stepping Out” part. It is the uncomfortable part, but your involvement may surely save a life.
September is National Suicide Awareness Month, but we should be prepared every day, every week, and every month to” Step Up” and then to “Step Out”. Please join us and all the others working to help those in distress. Together, we all can make a difference.