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Suicide prevention resource information following death of Kate Spade

Posted at 4:35 PM, Jun 05, 2018
and last updated 2018-06-05 22:21:10-04

Fashion designer Kate Spade was found dead in her apartment Tuesday in an apparent suicide, law enforcement officials said.

Spade, who was 55, created a line of sleek handbags in the early 1990s that created a smash.

From the outside, it appeared she had it all; fame, fortune and family. But on the inside, there was a struggle we have yet to understand as the investigation has just begun.    

Leaders with the Center for Suicide Awareness in Kaukauna said while it's an unfortunate tragedy, a high profile death like Spade's does raise awareness that mental health issues don't discriminate. It also sparks more conversations about the warning signs of suicide and help that's available in Northeast Wisconsin.    

"We shouldn't have to wait for somebody to die by suicide to get involved. I think really suicide prevention can be everybody's business, and so really looking out for each other and noticing if somebody is going through a tough time, and really reaching out to each other like on a human connection level," said Executive Director Barb Bigalke. 

Some of the warning signs to look for in people you know are talk of feeling helpless or being a burden to others, behavior changes like increased use of alcohol or withdrawing from family and activities, and changes in mood such as depression, anxiety and irritability.

If you or someone you know is struggling, the Center For Suicide Awareness offers 24/7 emotional support through its texting hotline, just text "HOPELINE" to 741741.

Or if you prefer a verbal conversation, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 
1-800-273-8255.

The Center for Suicide Awareness also offers one-on-one support and group sessions with peers and trained professionals.