Suicide Awareness & Prevention
“Talk Saves Lives.” I heard these words repeated by a representative from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention at a recent event. This phrase stuck with me. It’s simple, it’s easy to remember; but it addresses a topic that is far from simple.
Although talking about suicide can be incredibly challenging, it is crucial. Talking can save lives in numerous ways: by seeking support when we are struggling, reaching out to others who may need help, spreading awareness about risk factors and warning signs, seeking resources, and dispelling myths. So, with September being National Suicide Prevention month, let’s take this opportunity to talk about it.
Suicide Statistics
According to the CDC, suicide rates increased approximately 36% between 2000-2022. Suicide was responsible for over 49,000 deaths in 2022, which amounts to one death every 11 minutes. The CDC reported that, in 2022, suicide was the second leading cause of death for ages 10-14 and 25-34.
When seeking to understand and support others—or ourselves—there are several steps we can take. We can educate ourselves about risk factors, protective factors, and warning signs to help recognize when someone may be at risk.
Suicide Risk Factors & Protective Factors
Risk factors for suicide include depression, substance use problems, anxiety disorders, serious health conditions, traumatic brain injury, prolonged stress such as bullying, painful losses, and social isolation.
Protective factors include access to mental health care and being proactive with mental health, feeling connected to family and community, and strong problem-solving and coping skills.
Warning Signs of Suicide
Verbal or behavioral warning signs precede most suicides. Below are some of the warning signs according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
Suicide Warning include:
Talking about or making plans for suicide.
Expressing hopelessness about the future.
Displaying severe or overwhelming emotional pain or distress.
Changing or withdrawing from social connections or situations.
Changes in sleep (increased or decreased).
Recent increased agitation or irritability.
Acting anxious, agitated, or behaving recklessly.
Talking about being a burden to others.
Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.
What can we do to help those who may be considering suicide?
Being present with someone who is struggling, and listening without judgment, can be profoundly impactful. Don't hesitate to ask difficult questions. Some worry that asking about suicide might increase the risk by planting the idea, but research has shown this to be a myth. The stigma surrounding suicide often prevents people from talking about it openly but discussing it and asking those tough questions can encourage individuals to share their experiences and seek help.
If someone is in immediate danger or self-harm seems imminent, call 911. If you believe someone is in danger, stay with them until help arrives and remove any objects that could be used in a suicide attempt.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988)
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached by texting or calling 988, or via chat at 988lifeline.org. I have had clients who have been encouraged to call 988 during times of distress when other sources of support were not available. Some have avoided calling due to fear that 911 would be contacted if they mentioned thoughts of self-harm. SAMHSA reports that only a small percent of 988 calls require activation of the 911 system; this only occurs when there is an imminent risk to someone’s life that cannot be reduced during the call.
Nighttime can be a particularly difficult time for some people, when the world is quiet, but their thoughts are loud. I’ve asked many clients who their “middle of the night people” are. Who can they wake up, call, text, or reach out to in any way when they are in distress. And, in times of need, the 988 hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. I once had a client who, though they were not experiencing suicidal ideation at the time, was flooded with painful thoughts and emotions late one night. They called 988 and reported that the person who answered was compassionate, kind, and talked with them until they were in a better place.
As the saying goes, suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. Help is out there, and it can come in many forms. If you or anyone you know is struggling or considering self-harm, please reach out for support. Reach out to a loved one or a friend, a teacher, a counselor, or reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Talk saves lives.
How The Mind Spot Can Help
If you are worried about your teen and seeing some of the warning signs, call us to schedule an appointment. Make an appointment with Rosalyn deTranaltes or one of our counselors today. Meet Our Counselors