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Suicide

Suicide is the 12th leading cause of death in the US and the 2nd leading cause among people aged 10-34. In 2020 alone, there were an estimated 1.2 million suicide attempts (source: American Foundation for Suicide Prevention). 

 

What Causes It

Suicide is when someone takes their own life and suicidal ideation is when someone has recurring thoughts about suicide. There are countless indirect and direct reasons why life might become unbearable for some and, when they don’t have the support or resources needed to find a mental health balance, their stressors can become too much. 

  • Middle-aged white men make up 70% of all suicides.
  • LGBTQ+ and trans individuals are 4-9x more likely to attempt suicide.
  • Of those who die by suicide, 90% experienced mental health conditions or symptoms. 

These statistics mean there’s a lot of opportunity for us to make a positive impact on our communities through better mental health education and support. Let’s start by learning the red flags to be aware of. 

 

Red Flags

These risk factors suggest someone might be more likely to attempt suicide and may warrant a conversation. Every situation is different for each person, so get to know what’s normal for you/your loved ones and don’t ignore concerns if the red flag you’re seeing isn’t on this list. 

  • Previous suicide attempts
  • History of mental illness
  • Chronic pain or a serious, ongoing illness
  • Job/financial/criminal/legal problems
  • Substance abuse
  • Past trauma or current abuse
  • Loss of relationships
  • Social isolation
  • Sudden change of behavior
 

Suicide Myths

Before jumping into a conversation with someone about your own suicidal ideation or bringing it up with someone else, let’s get rid of some common myths about suicide. 

  1. You can bring it up and even say the word “suicide.” It’s not going to give them the idea or create confrontation. Be clear and direct about your worries. 
  2. Most suicides don’t happen around the holidays. The highest spikes are around seasonal changes, most notably in Spring. 
  3. Those who talk about suicide don’t just want attention. Those who attempt suicide almost always talk about it beforehand, and if anyone you know is bringing up the idea, then they deserve to be treated seriously. 
  4. People who think about suicide or make a suicide attempt are not weak. They are whole people dealing with very difficult obstacles. They just need the right support! 
  5. There’s always something you can do to help, even if you’re not a trained mental health professional. 
 

What You Can Do

Let’s #SeizetheAwkward! This hashtag spreads awareness about suicide with the idea that it doesn’t have to be the right time or a perfect conversation to make a difference. The biggest thing you can do is be there for them. 

Here are some specific ways you can do that from NAMI:

  • Talk openly and honestly. Don’t be afraid to ask questions like: “Do you have a plan for how you would kill yourself?”
  • Remove means such as guns, knives, or stockpiled pills
  • Calmly ask simple and direct questions, like “Can I help you call your psychiatrist?”
  • Express support and concern
  • Don’t argue, threaten, or raise your voice
  • Don’t debate whether suicide is right or wrong
  • If you’re nervous, try not to fidget or pace
  • Be patient

The new 988 number is also now active in Maryland, so people have an easy-to-remember way to get instant access to mental health support when suffering a crisis. Learn more about 988 here or use the links in this article to learn more about suicide. 

 

If you’re dealing with suicidal ideation, know that there are people who truly care. Call 988 today for emergency mental health needs or call PDG to schedule a therapy appointment.