Saving Lives September is Suicide Prevention Month. Suicide is often a word that invokes all sorts of emotions, from fear to sadness to anger. And, even though, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, suicide is the 10th-leading killer of Americans and the third highest cause of death in people 24 years old and under, it can be difficult to talk about. Like mental illness, suicide is one of those topics submerged in social stigma. In recent years, suicides thought to be prompted by bullying have been in the media spotlight, raising awareness. In 2010 alone, there were 38,364 suicides in the U.S., according to the American Association of Suicidology (AAS). That’s more than 105 suicides per day, or one suicide every 13.7 minutes. The AAS also reported that each year there are nearly 1 million suicide attempts. Who’s at risk? People with mental disorders tend to have the highest risk. According to the AAS, 90 percent of people who committed suicide were found to have at least one mental disorder. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) lists the most frequently cited suicide risks as:
According to the AFSP, people with risk factors can become suicidal after some environmental triggers such as:
These factors don’t normally cause suicide, but they can trigger suicidal thoughts in someone already at risk. Warning signs for suicide Most people who commit suicide will most likely show at least one warning sign. According to the Suicide Awareness Voices of Education, some of the warning signs may include:
It’s important for anyone showing or experiencing warning signs to get immediate help. So what can you do to help? Dr. Jan Remer-Osborn, neuropsychologist at Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove, Ill., recommends people act immediately if they think there’s a chance someone they know is considering suicide. “This is a life and death matter,” Dr. Osborn says. “You can save someone’s life by speaking up.” Dr. Osborn says some things you can do include:
“Take responsibility to save your co-worker, your friend, your family member,” she says. “You will not regret it.” |
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