September is Suicide Prevention Month
Every year hundreds of thousands of people across the world commit suicide. Even more attempt to do so. What can you do to help?
- The problem
- The signs
- Is there a solution?
Seeing the signs can be difficult and there is not always a long time frame to see the signs. The best prevention is awareness, and being able to listen when needed.
The Problem
The U.S. Center for disease control reports that in 2020 there were 46,000 suicides in the U.S. That’s one every eleven minutes.
- In 2020 the CDC reports that 12.2 million people attempted suicide.
- 3.2 people attempted to commit suicide in 2020 according to the same report
The Signs
Suicide is not always predictable as it is not always planned and can be triggered by a specific event, but the following behaviors are thought to be signs,
Hopelessness
Many suicidal individuals do not see happiness in their future and comment as such.
Extreme Mood Swings
Normally this would be thought of as someone who is moody or snappy, but this could also include sudden cheeriness.
Obsession with Death
This could include not only dialogue, but listening to music or watching programming about death.
Substance abuse
This could also include sudden changes in usage or volume of substance abuse changes.
Family History
Genetics is not the only concern here. Past experience if suicide or attempts from family members can set the precedent that suicide is an option.
What can I do?
Many people can be helped who are suicidal. Emotional support is one of the best things that you can provide. Ask questions and LISTEN. Many people just need someone to talk to. Show great appreciation for them sharing their sensitive thoughts and feelings with you. Discussing one’s own suicidal thoughts makes one very vulnerable, and one should be commended for taking this first critical step.
Always take any discussions of suicide extremally seriously. Someone who is on the edge might just feel worse if you express doubt, or challenge them with statements like “ You don’t really feel that way.”
Always remember that the National Suicide and Crisis Hotline is 988!
Make a difference
Although we may not all know someone that is suicidal, we all have friends or relatives that can benefit from some genuine, technology free, discussion. These conversations uncover emotional needs from both parties. Making a difference we can do for each other daily. Be positive. Be supportive. Be loving. You never know when these small acts just might let someone else continue to just Be.
