In 1932, when the first section of the Golden Gate Bridge was being built, there were 25 accidental deaths of workers falling into the Bay. Then, a large net was installed below the bridge. Because of the net, 28 lives were saved during the construction of the last sections of the bridge.
Once again, there is going to be a safety-net installed below the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s being installed to save people who are attempting to commit suicide from the bridge.
In 2013, a record was set with 45 people plunging to their deaths from the majestic orange bridge. Bridge workers stopped 118 others. That is a suicide or an attempt almost every other day at what is the most popular suicide spot in the nation and among the most popular in the world.
We too can be like that safety net. We can become familiar with the warning signs which may indicate someone is planning a suicide. Two warning signs are (1) when a person talks about death, dying or suicide, and (2) when a person has no sense of purpose in life –“no reason for living.” For more warning signs, click here: Are There Warning Signs of Suicide?
We can also become informed about how to help someone who is suicidal. Two ways to care for a person who might be considering suicide are: (1) Get involved; be available, showing interest and support, and (2) Be willing to listen, allowing the person to express his/her feelings without judgment. Don’t debate whether suicide is right or wrong or their feelings are good or bad; don’t lecture on the value of life. For more information on how to care for someone who is suicidal, click Here.
Please be ready to be a safety net. Be ready to save a life.
For additional resources search Suicide.