Suicide is the second leading cause of death for adults aged 25 to 34 and the rates continue to increase for adults 65 and older. In 2006 suicide was the 11th leading cause of death in the United States. More people die in the U.S. by suicide each year than from HIV or homicide. Suicide is a preventable public health problem. Suicide awareness and prevention starts by learning what you can do to help others.
Causes of suicide
There’s been a strong association between suicide and mental illness with 90% of suicides in the U.S being connected with a mental illness including alcohol and drug abuse. Other possibilities include a family history of attempts or committed suicide, severe anxiety, family violence, and exposure to suicidal behavior.
A person with suicidal thoughts may not seek help because they feel they can not be helped. A person serious about planning to commit suicide may have items such as weapons and medicines available and a time and place they want to commit suicide. People who consider suicide are often unsure if they want to live but with support from a caring individual they can choose life.
Ways you can help prevent suicide
Learn to recognize and respond to warning signs of suicide including:
- talking or thoughts of suicide,
- clinical depression,
- having a “death wish” or displaying risky behavior (running a red light or driving fast),
- loss of interest in things once cared about,
- Comments of feeling hopeless, worthless, and saying “I want out,” or “being better off with me.” display mood swings from being happy one minute to sadness the next
- visiting or calling people to say goodbye
Take things seriously if a person appears to be contemplating self harm. Be willing to listen and talk about what is bothering them. Help them seek assistance with a doctor or medical professional.
Get involve in suicide prevention activities in your state such as meetings, conferences, and training sessions. Learn state history on developments in planning, progress, and goals. What legislation procedures are in place for creation of plans, implementation, and evaluation? Review data statistics about demographics, medical and work related costs, and state ranking. Note state and local prevention resources (organizations, websites, etc.). Understand how plans and programs are funded. Make a charitable donation to area non-profits who support the cause. Become an advocate for suicide prevention by participating in a field advocate program.
Source: Suicide Resource Prevention Center. “Suicide Prevention Basics” (accessed September 9, 2010)
WebMD. “Suicidal Topic Overview” (accessed September 9, 2010)
