Individual counseling is available at Take Charge, Inc., in Overland Park, Kansas, as part of suicide prevention. Suicide – it’s tough to talk about but learning the facts and signs can save a life. On average, 129 Americans die by suicide every day. Individual counseling with Terri Dichiser at Take Charge, Inc. provides a safe, comfortable environment that allows you to put your thoughts and feeling into words, without fear of criticism or judgment.

A lot of us are afraid that asking if someone is thinking about suicide can plant the idea or make them think about it more. Research shows that this is not true. Instead, by asking “Have you had thoughts about suicide?” we communicate that we really care about the person. Asking the question can start the conversation to help support them in getting the help they need. Terri can help you deal with the external obstacles, social attitudes or your own internal barriers that stand in your way. Individual counseling will help you uncover a more fulfilling, happier life based on revelations and decisions made by you.

Individual counseling at Take Charge, Inc. can be a better way to deal with depression, and other mental health issues, and can also help with a positive lifestyle to change your neural pathways. Your brain can change as Terri helps you develop different behavior and beliefs. Research demonstrates that talking to a mental health professional can help with reframing our thoughts and reducing suicidal ideation, thus addressing suicide prevention.

Why Do People Consider Suicide?

Because each individual is unique, there is no single reason why someone has suicidal thoughts or may attempt to kill themselves. Factors that may contribute to having suicidal thoughts are:

•        A major life transition that is very upsetting or disappointing
•        A loss of an important relationship or the death of a loved one
•        Depression, anxiety or other serious emotional troubles
•        Feelings of hopelessness or despair
•        Low self-esteem or shame
•        Failure to live up to one’s own or others’ expectations
•        Extreme loneliness
•        News of a major medical illness
•        Severe physical or emotional pain
•        Alcohol or drug problems

Trauma, childhood trauma, neglect or abuse.

Warning Signs

There are many verbal and nonverbal warning signs that someone may be suicidal and crying out for help. These warning signs include:

•        Extended depression, sadness or uncontrolled crying
•        Giving away personal or prized possessions
•        Lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities
•        Lack of interest in personal appearance
•        Withdrawal from friends
•        Lack of energy or ambition
•        Changes in sleeping or eating habits
•        Increased use of drugs or alcohol
•        Restlessness or hyperactivity
•        Increased risky behaviors
•        Hopelessness and helplessness
•        Remarks or social media posts like: “It’ll be over soon,”; “I can’t take it anymore.”; “I have no reason to go on.”; “My life will never get better.” or  “People will be better off without me.”
•        Disclosure of previous suicide attempts
•        A recent loss or trauma from which a person is not recovering

Suicide is the second leading cause of death amongst college-aged students. Whether you or someone you care about is having a hard time, it’s important for someone who is suicidal to get the help they need.

You can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800-273-8255) or

Text the Crisis Text Line (741-741)

For more information about individual counseling and suicide prevention, call Take Charge, Inc. at (913) 239-8255.