The Suicide Prevention Task Force of Cleveland, Gaston and Lincoln Counties has launched www.WhenNotToKeepASecret.com, a website that focuses on suicide prevention tools, and other difficult situations that may lead a person to think of suicide as a way to relieve their emotional and physical pain.

 The group identified that many times, friends will be supportive of those in need--if they know that there is a problem. www.WhenNotToKeepASecret.com offers some key indicators to identify if a friend or loved one is in trouble, and how to be ready to listen and support those in need.  In addition, the site references other personal and social difficulties that contribute to suicide, such as domestic violence, sexual abuse, neglect, self-injury and bullying.  Viewers can also find phone numbers for many local resources, such as hospitals, schools, and health and social services departments located in the three county area.

 “We want people to ‘just talk’—talk about what is bothering you. Let the people you work with, socialize with and volunteer with know that you are in need.  Someone will listen,” stated Marion Taylor, a member of the task force and program manager with Gaston County Healthcare Commission/Gaston Together.

 A number of community groups began meeting in 2009 to discuss issues surrounding suicide and ways to prevent suicide in the area. The initial 35-member group took part in suicide prevention workshops and discussion on the needs in our community. Over the next year, the task force plans to develop more training efforts and awareness throughout Cleveland, Gaston and Lincoln Counties.