UAlbany Student Commits Suicide

Today, the Times Union has reported that University of Albany has confirmed the death of a student was a result of suicide.

This is a tragic loss for anyone to deal with. I've lost a family member to suicide, and my thoughts go out to the families and friends coping with this terrible tragedy.

If you or a loved one have thought about or ever considered suicide, please seek help.
The National Suicide Lifeline is open 24/7.  Don't wait until it's too late.
The number is 1-800-273-TALK.

The National Suicide Lifeline asks you to seek help if you or someone you know shows these warning signs:

• Threatening to hurt or kill oneself or talking about wanting to hurt or kill oneself
• Looking for ways to kill oneself by seeking access to firearms, available pills, or other means
• Talking or writing about death, dying, or suicide when these actions are out of the ordinary for the person
• Feeling hopeless
• Feeling rage or uncontrolled anger or seeking revenge
• Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities - seemingly without thinking
• Feeling trapped - like there's no way out
• Increasing alcohol or drug use
• Withdrawing from friends, family, and society
• Feeling anxious, agitated, or unable to sleep or sleeping all the time
• Experiencing dramatic mood changes
• Seeing no reason for living or having no sense of purpose in life

Life can be hard sometimes. I know, I have had my ups and downs just like anybody else, but everything always gets better with the company of friends, tissues, a tub of ice cream, and good set of ears. Whether it's a beak-up, a fight with a friend, a bad day at work, everything will work out. Sometimes it's hard to believe that, but it will get better. I can promise you that.