According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2021, suicide was among the top nine leading causes of death for people ages 10-64. It was the second leading cause of death for people ages 10-14 and 20-34. That same year, an estimated 12.3 million adults seriously thought about suicide, while 3.5million made a plan and 1.7 million attempted suicide.
Risk Factors
The CDC reports that suicide is rarely caused by one factor. Instead, the risk of suicide is increased through a range of factors in various realms.
Individual Risk Factors
- History of adverse childhood experiences
- History of depression or other mental illness
- Chronic pain or disease
- Impulsivity/aggressiveness
- Substance misuse
- Prior suicide attempt/s
- Financial issues or job loss
- Criminal or legal problems
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Being a victim of violence and/or perpetration
Risk Factors Related to Relationships
- Volatile/high conflict relationship
- A loved one’s prior suicide
- Relationship loss
Additionally, community risk factors (lack of access to healthcare, violence, discrimination, etc.) and societal risk factors (stigma associated with seeking help, easy access to lethal means, etc.) can increase the risk of an individual attempting suicide.
Warning Signs
Most people who die by suicide show at least one warning sign, which can include:
- Talking about killing themselves, feeling hopeless, feeling like a burden to others, feeling trapped, having no reason to continue living or experiencing unbearable pain
- Behaving differently by increasing substance use, researching ways to end their lives, isolating from loved ones/withdrawing from activities, contacting people to say goodbye, giving away important possessions, changes in sleep patterns, becoming more aggressive or being more fatigued than usual
- Mood changes, such as depression, anxiety, loss of interest, shame, agitation, anger/irritability or exhibiting relief or a sudden improvement in mood
If Someone You Know Is Struggling…
Never assume that someone else is going to help the person at risk. Take action as though you are the only one who will reach out:
- Start a real conversation. Ask how the person is really doing (and ask directly if they are thinking about suicide). Listen to their story without judgment.
- If the person tells you they are thinking about suicide, work with them to remove lethal means like firearms or drugs. Stay with them while they call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), escort them to mental health services or the nearest emergency room.
- Avoid minimizing their situation/problems or giving unsolicited advice.
- Follow up with them later to see how they are doing and let them know you care.
If You’re Having Thoughts of Suicide...
- Share honestly with a person close to you (friend, family, therapist, other current mental health provider, etc.)
- Call or text 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. You’ll be directed to a local, trained crisis worker and you’ll guide the conversation. You can develop a safety plan and be collaborate with the crisis worker on potential interventions.
- Ask a loved one to escort you to mental health services or your nearest emergency room.
Although thoughts of suicide aren’t uncommon, they should always be taken seriously. Know that you are not alone and help IS available!
If you are interested in engaging in mental health treatment, Travco can help. Contact us today at 330.286.0050!
