According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 123 people, on average, die by suicide each day in the United States. It's the 10th leading cause of death in America, the second leading cause of death for people age 25-34, and the third leading cause of death for those age 15-24. To create awareness and strengthen the fight against suicide, September is National Suicide Prevention Month.
Two people holding hands by Dragana Gordic/stock.adobe.com."We can all help to prevent suicide by reducing stigma about seeking mental health services and recognizing that mental health treatment is healthcare," said Dawn Dunnegan, a human sciences specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
The National Alliance on Mental Health reports that 46% of people who die by suicide had a diagnosed mental health condition and 90% had experienced symptoms. Groups with higher rates of suicide than others include veterans, teens and young adults, adults over age 45, people who have previously attempted suicide, American Indians and Alaska Natives, and LGBTQ individuals.
"You can help prevent suicide and assist someone in crisis by knowing the warning signs, asking the individual directly if they are thinking about suicide, and helping them find resources. Listen to their answers and let them know you care about them and their wellbeing," Dunnegan said.
"Do a safety check. Try to remove anything that they could use to harm themselves such as drugs, medication or weapons. It is important to help someone who is in crisis seek professional help, and many services are available. As a family member or friend, you may need to support and assist the individual in seeking out the additional help from professionals. If you are feeling suicidal, tell someone," said Dunnegan, who specializes in family wellbeing.
Other efforts in reducing suicide and suicide attempts can include reaching out to someone you know who might be in distress, following up with a family member or friend after a mental health crisis, or offering to help at a crisis center.
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach offers ongoing programs for mental health and suicide prevention education. Adult and Youth Mental Health First Aid trainings are available for groups, organizations and individuals as well as the suicide prevention training "Question. Persuade. Refer." -- also known as QPR.
The Iowa Concern Hotline from ISU Extension and Outreach has stress counselors who can talk with you over the phone (1-800-447-1985) or in one-on-one live chat online. Referrals for mental health counseling can also be accessed through Iowa Concern.
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) offers 24/7 call, text and chat access to trained crisis counselors who can help people experiencing suicidal, substance use, and/or mental health crises, or any other kind of emotional distress. People can also dial 988 if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support. Numerous studies have shown that most Lifeline callers are significantly more likely to feel less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful after speaking to a Lifeline crisis counselor.
Categories: Iowa, Rural Lifestyle