By: Vanessa Rosas
Key points:
Suicide is a serious public health problem that has lifelong impacts.
Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death affecting people of all ages.
Suicide is preventable.
What is suicide?
Suicide is when people harm themselves with the intent of ending their life, and they die as a result. A suicide attempt is when people harm themselves with the intent of ending their life, but they do not die.
Suicide is a public health concern significantly impacting individuals, families, and communities of all cultures and socioeconomic statuses. Suicide Rates from 2000-2022 increased by 36% making it the second leading cause of death for people 10-14 and 25-34. However, suicide is preventable.
Warning signs of suicide:
The warning signs for suicide include looking out for changes in behavior or presence of new behaviors related to painful event, loss, or change.
Talking about wanting to die or kill themselves
Expressing feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, or despair.
Withdrawing from friends, family, acting recklessly, or becoming increasingly isolated.
Displaying signs of depression, such as crying a lot, weight loss, or having trouble sleeping.
Experiencing significant trauma or loss.
If you notice any of these signs in someone you know, it is important to take them seriously and offer support. You can also encourage them to seek professional help from a mental health provider.
Who is at risk?
It is important to note that these risk factors do not guarantee that someone will attempt suicide, but they can increase the likelihood. It is crucial to seek help and support for individuals who may be at risk.
· Mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse; alcohol and drug use.
· Personal and family history of suicide attempts
· Exposure to family violence such as physical or sexual abuse
· Access to lethal means such as firearms or medications
· Chronic physical health conditions
· Social isolation or lack of support
· Financial or job-related stress
Treatments and Therapies for Suicide:
Preventive factors are available and include
Improve access and delivery of mental health care
Genesis Family Health offers behavioral health services from trained professionals including individual, family, and group therapy, telehealth sessions, case management, and psychiatric and medication management services as well as treating a variety of conditions,
Developing a safety plan with a mental health professional can help individuals identify warning signs and coping strategies.
Medication: Antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and antipsychotic
medications can help manage underlying mental health conditions.
Crisis Intervention: Immediate support through crisis hotlines, emergency rooms, or crisis intervention teams can provide urgent care.
Support Networks: Encouraging the involvement of family, friends, and support groups can provide a strong emotional foundation.
Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and sufficient sleep contribute to overall mental well-being.
Know the Resources available
For more information, please visit the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988lifeline.org.
Call or text 988 to chat with a trained counselor.
988 is confidential, free, and available 24/7.
Understanding the attributes leading to suicide helps in forming targeted interventions and policies to address the issue of suicide effectively. Stay aware of risks, warning, signs, and ask for help.