Physically, Kevin Hines should have died over 20 years ago.
Hines was two years into officially battling bipolar disease, and he says he felt compelled to end his life by suicide. So he jumped off the Golden Gate Bridge — and survived. Hines says his state of mind was “fractured” at that time, with hallucinations, paranoid delusions and manic highs followed by “dark depressions.”
Jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge — 250 feet in four seconds — kills 99 percent of people who try that action, and Hines says those thoughts are still constantly with him. He says he hasn’t tried suicide since his jump from the Golden Gate Bridge, and it’s because he gets the help he needs when he needs it. When the demons close in, he tells anybody close to him, “I need help now.” His family and close friends know that’s Hines’ shorthand for suicidal thoughts.
Hines spoke to over 500 Emporia State students and area residents Wednesday evening. He says he has successfully battled bipolar disorder because he realizes his thoughts don’t have to become his actions. He also encouraged residents considering suicide to text CNQR to the 741741 Crisis Text Line for 24-7 support. Locally, residents can also reach out to CrossWinds Counseling and Wellness at 620-343-2211 or www.crosswindsks.org. Residents can also reach Beacon for Hope Suicide Prevention at 620-481-9251 or go online to www.hopelinks.org.
