According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is the eighth leading cause of death among men and the third leading cause of death among people ages 15-24 in the United States. In addition, women attempt suicide in their lifetime three times as often as men, but men are four times more likely than women to succeed. Understanding how to recognize the warning signs of suicidal behavior could potentially save a life.
There are several factors that may increase a person’s propensity for suicidal or harmful behavior. Among them are:
• Mental disorders
• Depression
• A history of alcohol and substance abuse
• Feelings of hopelessness
• Isolation
• A physical illness, or
• A recent loss, be it a death, the end of a relationship, or a financial misfortune.
You should also be aware if someone seems to be in a state of depression, exhibits self-destructive behavior, lacks interest in activities that once excited them, withdraws from social contact, or undergoes a major personality change. While these signs do not necessarily indicate the presence of suicidal thoughts, they can be indicators of a person’s serious emotional or mental distress. Depression and suicidal thoughts and feelings are not uncommon, but are rarely talked about. Another person’s intense emotional distress can be an important warning sign of more serious risks and should never be taken lightly.
Should you know someone who is at risk or is experiencing suicidal thoughts, it is important to be sensitive to their feelings, be willing to listen, and not be judgmental. If the person feels they will be judged negatively for thinking of suicide, they will be less willing to talk about their feelings and more likely to feel isolated. Talking about suicide should not be avoided because of discomfort or fear about the topic, and such conversation should always be taken seriously.
If someone you know communicates that they are having suicidal thoughts and especially if they seem to have plans on how to kill themselves, get help immediately and do not leave that person alone. If it is a crisis situation, call 911.
Ultimately, if someone you know is exhibiting signs of suicidal tendencies, do what you can to be there for them and encourage them to seek professional help. There are many options, be it contacting a family doctor, going to the local emergency room or community health center, or calling a talk line like the Samaritans at 877-870-HOPE or the Boston Emergency Services Team (BEST) line at 800-981-HELP.
