The topic of suicide is getting an increased amount of attention lately. Whether it’s the husband of Taylor from “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” or one of numerous gay teens who allegedly killed themselves after being victims of bullying, it appears suicide rates are on the rise. Between 1986 and 1998 suicide rates had dropped eighteen percent. From 1999-2005, suicide rates surged 16% for men and 19% for women. Trends are showing that suicide rates may be connected to our economy, which should be a concern for everyone given that we are in the middle of an economic downturn. With National Depression Screening Day on October 6, here are some things you should know about suicide:
- Women attempt suicide more than men, but men actually complete (are successful in their suicide attempts) than women.
- Those 65 and older have the highest suicide rate.
- Men use firearms more often to commit suicide; women more often overdose.
Here are some warning signs of suicide:
- Depression
Depression often precedes suicide; Feelings of worthlessness, helplessness, blue mood, problems sleeping and problems with appetite may all be warning signs of depression. - Substance Abuse
Those considering suicide are often self-medicating with alcohol or other drugs to try to numb their pain - Change in Behavior
Many times someone who is depressed will experience something called anhedonia. This is a loss of interest in things you once loved. So, if you used to enjoy going out with friends on the weekends and you now have no interest in that activity, it might be a sign of depression. - Giving Away Possessions
This may sound cliché, but someone who has decided to end his/her life will often give away prized possessions to loved ones. - Saying Goodbyes
Someone who is considering suicide will often make amends in relationships and begin saying goodbye, many times in a veiled manner. - Previous personal suicide attempts or family members’ attempts-someone who has attempted suicide before is at a higher risk to try it again; those who have a family history of suicide are also at higher risk than those without a family history of suicide.
- A more positive mood-sounds like an oxymoron, but many people who decide to end their lives will experience a peace and a peak in their moods. It will almost seem like a relief that they finally see a way out of their depression.
If someone you love shows some of these warning signs step up and step in to the situation. Ask the tough questions. Let them know your concerns and ask the direct question: “Are you considering suicide?” If the answer is “Yes,” you’ll need to be ready to take steps to protect the life of your loved one.
Steps to Intervene:
- Don’t promise to keep secrets. Many times someone considering suicide will ask you not to tell anyone. Tell him that his safety is more important to you than whether or not he’ll be mad at you for not keeping a secret.
- Call someone to help-this can be a suicide hotline (1-800-273-8255 is the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline), the local hospital, police station, or 911. Each of these options has specially trained staff to know how to respond to this crisis situation.
- Stick with them-don’t leave the person alone. You may have to call in some family members and other friends to help.
- Ask if he has a plan-ask “If you were going to kill yourself, how would you do it?” This may feel awkward, but if the person has been considering suicide, it may be a relief for him to finally be able to talk about it. If he is considering using a gun, ask if he has a gun and pass this information on to the professionals.
- Talk with him about reasons to live-For many people, they believe suicide is a sin. For others, they know how badly it would hurt their families. Whatever the reasons, talk about the reasons to continue to live.
Knowing the signs of depression and risk factors for suicide can be helpful in helping save someone’s life. If you are struggling with depression or experiencing other signs mentioned for suicide, there are a variety of counseling services we offer that may be able to help. If while you were reading this article, someone came to mind and you’d like help in equipping yourself to be a support, contact us. If you or someone you love is considering suicide, please seek immediate help by calling 911, your local crisis hotline, or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.