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September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

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Amy PovichBy Amy Povich, MSW, LSCSW, LCSW
Behavioral Health Therapist

Nearly 48,000 people die by suicide in the United States every year. While suicide is the 11th cause of death overall, it is the second cause of death for individuals between the ages of 20 to 34. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 2.2 million adults attempt suicide annually, 4.6 million adults make suicide plans, and 14.3 million adults seriously think about suicide each year.

Understanding who is at risk is an important aspect of suicide prevention. In the United States, American Indian and Alaska Native populations experience the highest rates of suicide of any other racial or ethnic group. Males make up about 80% of those who die by suicide and 46 percent of people who die by suicide have a known mental health condition. However, it is important to note that there is no single reason for suicide and that people of all ages, sexes, ethnicities, etc. can be at risk of suicide.

Risk Factors

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness MonthRisk factors include:

  • Previous suicide attempt(s)
  • History of mental illness
  • Serious illness
  • Criminal/legal problems
  • Job loss/financial struggles
  • Impulsive or aggressive tendencies
  • Substance use disorder
  • Childhood trauma
  • Victim of violence
  • Victim of bullying
  • Family/loved one’s history of suicide
  • Loss of relationships
  • High conflict or violent relationships
  • Social isolation
  • Lack of access to health care
  • Suicide cluster in the community
  • Community violence
  • Stigma about mental health struggles
  • Access to lethal means of suicide
  • Unsafe media portrayals of suicide

Warning Signs

Some of the warning signs that a person is at immediate risk of suicide include:

  • Talking about suicide or death
  • Hopelessness
  • Stating, “I have no reason to live”
  • Talking about being a burden to others
  • Withdrawing from loved ones
  • Giving away important possessions
  • Saying goodbye to friends and family
  • Risky behavior
  • Extreme mood swings
  • Talking about feelings of guilt or shame
  • Increasing alcohol or drug use
  • Sleeping too little or too much

If You Suspect…

If you suspect someone is suicidal, you can help by following five important steps, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH):

  1. Ask: it may feel uncomfortable to ask someone if they are suicidal. However, asking someone directly can help them feel less alone and provide an opportunity to connect them with support.
  2. Be There: Listen with compassion and without judgment. People who are suicidal may feel isolated and/or ashamed, so connecting with a caring person may help them feel less alone.
  3. Help Keep Them Safe: Harm reduction is important in protecting people who are suicidal. Removing or locking up lethal items like weapons and medication can help the person stay safe when suicidal thoughts arise.
  4. Help Them Connect: Providing community resources and personal support can be a pivotal part of safety planning. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988) is a 24-hour service for people who need emotional support. You can also encourage them to make a list of people who they trust and can reach out to for support, like a friend or family member.
  5. Follow Up: Staying in touch with the person after they have experienced a crisis can make a difference. Studies show that supportive, ongoing contact can be an important part of suicide prevention.

Healthcare Professionals

Healthcare professionals play an important part in preventing suicide by:

  • Routinely screening patients for suicidal thoughts and behaviors
  • Considering hospitalization for patients at high risk of suicide
  • Referring to a higher level of care as needed
  • Developing safety plans
  • Collaborating with family members and providers

In addition to identifying risk factors, healthcare providers should help identify and enhance protective factors among at-risk populations, including:

  • Effective coping and problem-solving skills
  • Identifying reasons for living (for example, family, friends, pets, etc.)
  • Encouraging support from and connection with partners, friends, and family, and community
  • Providing access to consistent and high quality physical and behavioral health care
  • Reducing access to lethal means of suicide

Immediate Help

If you are thinking about harming yourself or attempting suicide:

  • Call 911 for emergency services
  • Go to the nearest hospital emergency room
  • Call or text 988 to connect with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The Lifeline provides 24-hour, confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. Support is also available via live chat at 988lifeline.org

Health Partnership Clinic offers therapy services, psychiatric medication management and substance use counseling. To schedule an appointment or for more details, please call 913-730-3664.