Suicide Awareness and Prevention

In recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day on Saturday, September 10^th, ERC is dedicating this article to suicide awareness and prevention resources. Unfortunately, death by suicide continues to be a significant public health concern. In the United States alone, 45,979 people died by suicide in 2020¹ making it the 12^th leading cause of death.²

Trends in suicide rates:

The highest rates of suicide were among people ages 85 and older.¹ Those aged 25 to 34 years and 75 to 84 years had the second and third highest rates, respectively.²
American Indian/Alaska Natives were the racial/ethnic groups with the highest suicide rates in 2020.¹
Men are four times more likely than women to die by suicide.¹
White males accounted for 70% of suicide deaths in 2020.²

While these figures provide the demographic trends of those who died by suicide, anyone can be at risk. Knowing the warning signs of suicide can make a difference in helping those who might be struggling.

Common Warning Signs:

Mood changes, like increased sadness, fatigue, crying, or irritability, or sudden positive mood
Creating a suicide plan
Talking about self-harm or wanting to die
Saying goodbye to friends and family or withdrawing from relationships
Giving away possessions or making final plans

A common misconception is that someone who is suicidal is depressed, but that’s not always the case. Don’t be afraid to ask a person who shows warning signs if they are having thoughts of suicide; you won’t put an idea in their mind that wasn’t there to begin. Also, keep in mind that someone may be having suicidal thoughts while not showing any of these signs. As a community, we can encourage those who might be silently struggling by creating safe spaces for people to talk openly about mental health and reduce the stigmas of mental health issues and counseling.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, it’s important to reach out for help. Do not leave someone alone who has expressed an intent to harm themselves. There is hope for healing, and suicide awareness and prevention resources are available.

Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

For the national Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, you can call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org for yourself or a loved one when having suicidal thoughts, a mental health or substance use crisis, or emotional distress. 988 is a 24/7 universal entry point, so no matter where you are in the US, you can reach a crisis counselor for help. For more information, visit 988lifeline.org or samhsa.gov/find-help/988

Local Crisis Centers

Many communities have local crisis centers that can provide emergency support services. Do a search in your area to familiarize yourself with the available resources and prepare yourself should you need them at some point.

911 / Emergency Room

For medical emergencies or imminent danger, call 911 or go to an emergency room.

Employee Assistance Program

Lastly, your Employee Assistance Program is also a resource you can go to when you are struggling with mental health issues or have been impacted by someone who is struggling. Please note that for mental health emergencies, the EAP will likely direct you to a local crisis resource for further care.

Sources: (1) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, June 28). Suicide data and statistics. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/facts/data.html.(2) American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. (n.d.). Suicide statistics. Retrieved from https://afsp.org/suicide-statistics/.