Preventing Suicide

Suicide is one of the fastest-growing epidemics around the world. Approximately 44,000 people in the U.S. alone commit suicide each year, with an average of 123 suicides each day. It’s the 10th leading cause of death in America – second leading for ages 25-34, and third leading for ages 15-24. In order to create awareness and strengthen the fight against suicide, September is National Suicide Prevention Month.

In recent years, society has become more open and receptive to discussions and conversations on suicide. However, there is still a stigma surrounding it, and, with suicide rates increasing, it still means that the right help is not reaching people on time.

All of us play a role in both perpetuating the causes of and preventing suicide. Every year during National Suicide Prevention Month, mental health advocates, survivors, friends and family, and mental health organizations across the country and around the world share their experiences and work toward eradicating this most tragic act.

Thanks to National Suicide Prevention Month, approaches to suicide are beginning to change. There’s a stigma connected to suicide, so too often it’s not talked about — and those who suffer from it feel they can’t discuss it. Suicide Prevention Month helps to destigmatize this mental illness and promote conversation.

Know the Risk Factors

Risk factors are characteristics that make it more likely that someone will consider, attempt or die by suicide. They can’t cause or predict a suicide attempt, but they are important to be aware of.

• Mental disorders, particularly mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders and certain personality disorders
• Alcohol and other substance use disorders
• Hopelessness
• Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies
• History of trauma or abuse
• Major physical illnesses
• Previous suicide attempt(s)
• Family history of suicide
• Job or financial loss
• Loss of a relationship(s)
• Lack of social support and a sense of isolation
• Stigma associated with asking for help

Know the Signs

Pain isn’t always obvious, but most suicidal people show some signs that they are thinking about suicide. The signs may appear in conversations, through their actions or in social media posts. If you observe one or more of these warning signs, especially if the behavior is new, has increased or seems related to a painful event, loss or change, step in or speak up.

• Acting anxious or agitated, behaving recklessly
• Giving away possessions
• Putting affairs in order
• Changes in sleep, too little or too much
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
• Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
• Extreme mood swings
• Withdrawal
• Uncontrolled anger
• Increased alcohol or drug use
• Talking about being a burden to others

Start the Conversation

Talking with and finding help for someone who may be suicidal can be difficult. Here are some tips:

• Do talk openly and matter-of-factly about suicide.
• Do listen, allow expressions of and accept feelings.
• Do get help. Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255). The Lifeline network is available 24/7 across the United States.
• Do act. Remove means, like weapons or pills.
• Don’t debate.
• Don’t be sworn to secrecy.
• Participate in the fight by getting involved and listening to those who need help.

For more information, go to suicidepreventionlifeline.org. QCBN

By Deanna Eder

Deanna Eder is the director of marketing and development at Polara Health. She can be reached at d.eder@polarahealthcom.