Internal Medicine Center recognizes Suicide Prevention Week. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. Here are some more harsh statistics:
The annual age-adjusted suicide rate is 12.93 per 100,000 individuals.
Men die by suicide 3.5x more often than women.
On average, there are 117 suicides per day.
White males accounted for 7 of 10 suicides in 2014.
Firearms account for almost 50% of all suicides.
The rate of suicide is highest in middle age — white men in particular.
There’s no single cause for suicide. However, severe depression is the most common condition associated with suicide, and it is often undiagnosed or untreated. Conditions like depression, anxiety and substance problems, especially when unaddressed, increase risk for suicide. Yet it’s important to note that most people who actively manage their mental health conditions lead fulfilling lives.
WARNING SIGNS:
If a person talks about being a burden to others, feeling trapped or having no reason to live
Increased use of alcohol or drugs
Looking for a way to kill themselves, such as searching online for materials or means
Acting recklessly
Withdrawing from activities
Isolating from family and friends
Sleeping too much or too little
Increased use of alcohol or drugs
Extreme anger
Depression
IF YOU HAVE CONCERNS:
Encourage your loved one to talk to their therapist/counselor about developing a safety plan. You can find more information about safety planning through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
Encourage them to engage in healthy eating and exercise, as well as regular sleep.
Help identify ways to support their recovery, such as reducing their workload, allowing others to help them with daily responsibilities, and socializing with supportive people.
Encourage them to engage in self-care and relaxation activities, such as meditation, spending time in nature, and listening to music that helps their mood.
Ask the provider how you can help make their environment safer, and take action to reduce access to means, such as removing or safely storing firearms and medications.
