Suicide Prevention Month 2021

Are you wondering why you should read this blog? Or share it?

I’ll tell you why.

Because Suicide Touches All Communities

In this past year, Nation wide,

• There were 1.4 million attempts and more than 47,000 deaths from suicide.
• Suicide is at its highest level and is still rising.
• Rural counties are being hit the hardest with suicide rates double the rate in urban counties.
• There has been an alarming 50% increase of suicide rates among women.

It’s important to know, everyone can help decrease these numbers. The first step is to know the

Risk Factors

• Mental disorders, particularly mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders and certain personality disorders
• Alcohol and other substance use disorders
• Hopelessness
• Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies
• History of trauma or abuse
• Major physical illnesses
• Previous suicide attempt
• Family history of suicide
• Job or financial loss
• Loss of relationship
• Easy access to lethal means
• Local clusters of suicide
• Lack of social support and sense of isolation
• Stigma associated with asking for help
• Lack of health care, especially mental health and substance abuse treatment
• Cultural and religious beliefs, such as the belief that suicide is a noble resolution of a personal dilemma
• Exposure to others who have died by suicide (in real life or via the media and Internet)

While those who are contemplating suicide don’t always demonstrate warning signs, most do. The

Warning Signs

#BeThe1To be aware of the risks and notice the signs, then

include:

• Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves.
• Looking for a way to kill themselves, such as searching online or buying a gun.
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
• Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.
• Talking about being a burden to others.
• Increasing their use of alcohol or drugs.
• Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly.
• Sleeping too little or too much.
• Withdrawing or isolating themselves.
• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.
• Displaying extreme mood swings.

Suicide is preventable.

Thank you for committing to doing your part.

If you are in crisis or having suicidal thoughts, YOU ARE NOT ALONE!

Please call 800.273.8255, 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.