How to Save a Life: Suicide Prevention Awareness

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. This month is intended to create conversation about suicide, raise awareness about statistics and warning signs, and promote the safety and support of those struggling with suicidality.

Why is Suicide Prevention Awareness So Important?

Many people may view suicide as a rare occurrence, or something that has a negligent impact on society. However, this is a myth. In 2017, suicide was the second leading cause of death for those between 10 and 24 years old, and 25 to 44 years old, and the eighth leading cause of death for those aged 45 to 64 years old (CDC, 2017). These statistics highlight the harrowing reality that suicide is a common cause of death in the United States. Moreover, society is greatly impacted by suicide, as family, friends, and communities grieve loved ones lost by suicide. Moreover, there are also incidents of suicide clusters, in which a number of people in a concentrated area die by suicide following the suicide of someone nearby.

Warning Signs of Suicide

While not everyone presents the same, there are commonly identified warning signs that someone is at risk for suicide.

Warning Signs Include:

Frequently talking about killing themself or wanting to die
Expressing feelings of hopelessness or lack of reason to live
Change in sleeping patterns
Withdrawal or isolation
Increased use of alcohol or drugs
Searching for ways to end their life
Irritability or anger
Giving away belongings
Sudden improvement in mood (**often a sign that the person has made the decision to die by suicide**)

Have the Conversation

If you are concerned that someone you know is contemplating suicide, don’t hesitate to talk to them. Asking someone about suicide does not increase a person’s risk of suicide, or cause them to contemplate suicide. Rather, it can help to save their life.

Begin the conversation by expressing your concern. Then, ask them directly if they are having thoughts of suicide. Most often, people answer honestly. The gesture of you reaching out to them and expressing your concern for their life can be deeply meaningful and helpful. If they answer that they are having thoughts of suicide, refer them to the proper resources to ensure that they receive the care they need. If they are in immediate risk of suicide, call 911 to receive emergency assistance.