Warning Signs
A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) shows that there has been a 25% increase in suicides in the US since 1999. Montana experienced about 29 suicides for every 100,000 people -- the highest in the nation.
“These data, derived from the National Violent Death Reporting System, showed that 54% of those who committed suicide in 2015 did not have a known mental health condition. Digging deeper, the researchers found that several circumstances, including the loss of (or problems in) a relationship, were more likely to trigger a suicide among those who did not have a mental health condition.” Source: CNN “US Suicides Increased More Than 25% since 1999, CDC Says”
That being said, it’s important to understand that we can help prevent suicide. By educating ourselves on possible risk factors and warning signs, being willing to have candid and compassionate conversations with our loved ones/friends/neighbors, and “staying with them”, both literally and figuratively, we can make a difference and save a life.
Warning Signs
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention has identified the following as possible warnings signs that a person is at risk for suicide:
Listen to What a Person Says:
If a person talks about:
- Killing themselves
- Feeling hopeless
- Having no reason to live
- Being a burden to others
- Feeling trapped
- Unbearable pain
What are Their Actions?
The following are some behaviors that may indicate risk, especially if related to a painful event, loss or change:
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs
- Looking for a way to end their lives, such as searching online for methods
- Withdrawing from activities
- Isolating from family and friends
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Visiting or calling people to say goodbye
- Giving away prized possessions
- Displaying Aggression
- Displaying Fatigue
What is Their Mood?
A person at risk for suicide may display one or more of the following moods:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Loss of interest
- Irritability
- Humiliation/Shame
- Agitation/Anger
- Relief/Sudden Improvement
Other ways to learn more about possible risk factors:
The American Association of Suicidality has created the mnemonic IS PATH WARM to help identify possible risk factors for suicide.
MentalHealth.gov provides a list of possible risk factors for suicide
The Suicide Prevention Resource Center has identified 3 risk factors that should prompt IMMEDIATE action such as calling the National Suicide Prevention Hotline (9-8-8) or going to the nearest emergency department:
- Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself
- Looking for a way to kill oneself, such as searching online or obtaining a gun
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live