September is Suicide Prevention Month. Although suicide prevention is an important issue all year round, September is a dedicated time to raise awareness and focus on addressing this difficult topic. Mental health conditions and suicide are more common than you might think. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), nearly 46,000 lives were lost to suicide in the US in 2020 alone. It is no surprise that most people feel uncomfortable talking about suicide or mental health issues in general. But we need to be talking more about this important issue. Let’s start that conversation today.
First, if you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline now. Just dial 988, or you can use this link 988 Lifeline – If you need emotional support, reach out to the national mental health hotline: 988.
Here are some important facts about suicide:-
Suicide is preventable.
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Suicidal thoughts, like mental health conditions in general, can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, religion, socioeconomic status, or background.
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Suicidal thoughts, although not uncommon, should not be considered normal. They indicate more serious issues.
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Comments or thoughts about suicide, can begin small, such as “I wish I wasn’t here” or “Nothing matters.” But over time, they can become more explicit and dangerous.
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One in 5 youth and young adults is living with a mental health condition, which can increase their risk of suicide.
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Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death for people ages 10-14, the 3rd leading cause of death among those aged 15-24, and the 12th leading cause of death overall in the US.
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46% of people who die by suicide had previously been diagnosed with a mental health condition. However, research suggests that up to 90% had experienced symptoms or exhibited signs of a mental health condition beforehand.
Suicide is a serious public health problem and has far-reaching impacts.
Here are some of the impacts from suicide:
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People who attempt suicide and survive may have serious injuries that have life-long effects on their health and may deal with long-term depression and other mental health issues.
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When someone attempts or dies by suicide, their surviving family, friends, co-workers, and the community may be affected. This may include prolonged grief, shock, anger, guilt, symptoms of depression or anxiety, and even their own thoughts of suicide. Teens are more likely to attempt/commit suicide after other teen suicides occur in their community.
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Financial toll – In 2020, suicide and nonfatal self-harm cost the US over $500 billion in medical costs, work loss costs, quality of life costs, and other costs.
What are the warning signs of suicide?
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Increase in alcohol and/or drug use
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Withdrawal from family, friends, and community
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Aggressive behavior
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Dramatic mood swings
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Impulsive or reckless behavior
If you or a loved one is experiencing these warning signs, you should seek care from a mental health professional.
What are suicidal behaviors?
Suicidal behaviors are considered a psychiatric emergency. These include:
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Comments or thoughts about suicide.
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Collecting/saving pills or buying a weapon
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Giving away possessions
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Trying to tie up loose ends, such as organizing personal papers or paying off debts
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Saying goodbye to family and friends
If you or a loved one starts doing any of these things, it is time for immediate help from a health care professional. This is the time to go to an emergency room or call 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Next week, we will talk more about the risk factors for suicide and how you can help prevent suicide.
If you have any questions about suicide prevention, please log into your account and send us your question. We are here to help.
Dr. Anita Bennett MD – Health Tip Content Editor