Mental Illness in the Media
August 30, 2019
Mental Health in Athletes
September 6, 2019National Suicide Prevention Week
Too many of us have lost a friend, partner, or family member to suicide.
It is an all-too-common occurrence, and unfortunately, it is likely that at some point in our lives, we are bound to know someone who decides to take their own life.
Suicide Statistics in the U.S.
At Banyan Mental Health, our depression treatment program is dedicated to helping individuals who struggle with depression and suicidal thoughts. We recognize that severe depression is all too common in the United States, and we're here to share some startling facts. Suicide is the act of intentionally causing one's own death, whereas a suicide attempt occurs when someone harms themselves with the intent to die but survives.
Unfortunately, suicide is the fourth leading cause of death for people between the ages of 10-34 in the United States as of 2022. This alarming statistic is especially concerning given that suicide is entirely preventable.
Suicide rates vary by race, ethnicity, age, and other factors. American Indian/Alaska Native and non-Hispanic White populations have the highest rates. Veterans, rural residents, and workers in industries like mining and construction also face higher risks. Additionally, young people who are identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community experience higher rates of suicidal ideation and behavior compared to their straight peers.
In 2017 alone, there were 1,400,000 suicide attempts in the United States. This translates to about 1.4 million adults attempting suicide. If these attempts had been successful, the suicide death rate would be significantly higher. To put this in perspective, there were twice as many suicides as homicides in 2017, meaning people were twice as likely to kill themselves than another person. Although some people may not go so far as to attempt suicide, they may still experience suicidal thoughts. In 2017, it was estimated that 4.3% of adults over the age of 18 in the United States had thoughts about suicide in the last year. If these thoughts are not addressed with proper mental health treatment, they could develop into suicidal behavior.
Questions about our Facilities or Programs?
Our admissions coordinators are available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have as you consider whether treatment at Banyan is right for you or your loved one.
Recognizing the Warning Signs of Suicide
Recognizing the signs of suicide and behavior is crucial for intervention and support. At Banyan Mental Health, we understand the seriousness of these indicators, which can vary widely and may not always be obvious. It's important to pay attention to changes in behavior or language that suggest someone may be contemplating suicide.
These signs often include:
- Talking about wanting to die or wanting to kill themselves
- Talking about feeling empty or hopeless or having no reason to live
- Talking about feeling trapped or feeling that there are no solutions
- Feeling unbearable emotional or physical pain
- Talking about being a burden to others
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- Giving away important possessions
- Saying goodbye to friends and family
- Putting affairs in order, such as making a will
- Taking great risks that could lead to death, such as driving extremely fast
- Talking or thinking about death often
- Using Drugs or Alcohol more often
- Sleeping more or less
World Suicide Prevention Day
During National Suicide Prevention Week is also World Suicide Prevention Day Although, we have focused on suicide in the United States, suicide is a problem that stretches to all corners of the world. People from around the globe of all different cultures and backgrounds grapple with suicide.
Each year, it is estimated that almost 800,000 people die from suicide around the world. Statistics also suggest that for every adult who dies from suicide, there are 20 others who have attempted it. This needs to stop.
What You Can Do to Prevent Suicide and Support Those in Need
If your loved one is experiencing suicidal thoughts, engaging in self-harm, or suicidal behavior, do not wait to get help. Especially if they are abusing drugs or alcohol, the time to act is now.
In honor of National Suicide Prevention Month, below are a few ways to help someone who is experiencing suicidal thoughts.
- Take it seriously. Unfortunately, some people may neglect to take their loved one’s threats seriously until it is too late.
- Get them professional help. A professional treatment program like our dual diagnosis treatment is designed to help people work through both depression and substance abuse.
- Act early. If your loved one suffers from depression but is not suicidal, do not stand idly by. Get them help for their depression before these more serious thoughts develop.
- Do your research. There are plenty of resources out there for someone who is struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts. If your loved one is resistant to a certain type of treatment, find them another one immediately.
Engaging in the Community: How you Can Participate
- Sharing your story related to your own struggles with suicide or losing a loved one to suicide
- Sharing resources that could help someone who could be contemplating suicide
- Raising awareness about suicide on social media by using #SuicidePrevention and #StigmaFree
- Learning about suicide and how to recognize the signs of suicidal idealization in others
- Taking the time to remember and commemorate a loved one who committed suicide
- Reaching out to people you know who may be struggling with mental illness
- Getting profession help and mental health treatment if you are struggling yourself
- Connecting with people who lost a loved one to suicide
- Donating to organizations that focus on suicide prevention
- Volunteering your time or talents to a mental health organization
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How Banyan Mental Health Can Help
If you are battling any kind of mental illness or know someone who is, National Suicide Prevention Month may also be the time to get treatment. You should not have to live with a mental health disorder controlling your life. Our residential mental health facility can help you take steps to regain control and lead a happier life.
With National Suicide Prevention Week here, do not hesitate any longer. By calling (877) 360-1639 you may be able to save a life.
Sources:
- CDC - Leading Causes of Death Reports, 1981 - 2017
- CDC - Preventing Suicide
- SAMHSA - National Survey on Drug Use and Health
- World Health Organization - Suicide data
- image credit: instagram
