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Recession Depression Setting In

One suicide hotline reports a 77% jump in calls

By Kevin Spak,  Newser Staff

Posted Feb 15, 2009 6:11 AM CST
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(Newser) – Some people can take losing a job in stride, but Silvia Martinez isn’t one of them. When she lost her $52,000-a-year human resources job, the Virginia woman was too ashamed to tell anyone and sank into a deep depression. “I apply for jobs and apply for jobs and no one calls,” she tells NPR. Eventually, she attempted suicide. Sadly, Martinez isn’t alone, experts warn.

A Northern Virginia suicide hotline—the one Martinez called—is getting 270 calls a month, a 77% increase from last year, according to their latest statistics. Those triggered by financial hardships are up 40%. The calls cross the economic spectrum, from a man concerned about a family member who lost millions, to a poor single mother dangerously close to homelessness. “We’re hearing more now,” said one hotline manager. “It’s very different than it was.”

Unemployment is too much to bear for some.
Unemployment is too much to bear for some.   (Shutterstock)
For some, losing a job is a deeply shameful experience.
For some, losing a job is a deeply shameful experience.   (Shutterstock)
For some people the stress of job hunting is too much to handle.
For some people the stress of job hunting is too much to handle.   (Shutterstock)
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COMMENTS
Showing 1 of 1 comment
Forderon
Feb 16, 2009 5:27 AM CST
This article is for anyone who doesn't think that the economy is a national security issue. Even the Dir. of National Intelligence agrees that it is and warned the president. There is a human cost of this just like there is in a war. So "Bush kept us safe" my ass.

Recession could cause spike in suicides
Time

Unemployment can weigh heavier on men
Philadelphia Inquirer

Economy triggering depression, anxiety
Wisconsin State Journal

 
suicide • depression • psychology • unemployment • recession depression

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