Suicide Awareness: What Everyone Needs to Know

Sep 15

The number one fear of therapists is client suicide. I would think it’s a number one fear for many parents, too… or spouses, or friends, or any loved one of someone who’s struggling.

As a therapist who’s done a fair amount of suicide prevention and assessment training, I am familiar with some scary statistics about suicide… about teens, middle-aged white men, LGBTQ+ communities, cultural influences, staggering rates of suicide in veterans, as well as how suicide in America compares with other countries. Sometimes we forget these “statistics” represent actual lives lost and other lives forever changed by suicide.

“Statistics are merely aggregate numbers with the tears wiped away.” ~Dr. Irving Selifkoff

Suicide prevention training also teaches us what helps. People want connection and to alleviate their misery. Together, we can make that happen. Be familiar with the warning signs listed below. If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out for help. Asking about suicide does NOT make someone suicidal. In fact, it can do just the opposite: it gives someone a chance to talk about what they’re feeling and get needed support.

Warning Signs of Suicide

Talk:

About wanting to die or killing oneself
About feeling trapped
About feeling unbearable pain
About having no reason to live
About feeling like a burden to others

Behavior:

Looking for a way to kill oneself, such as searching online or obtaining lethal means
Increased use of alcohol or drugs
Sleeping too much or too little
Isolating from friends and family
Withdrawing from activities
Saying goodbye or giving away prized possessions
Reckless behavior
Aggression

Mood:

Extreme depression or anxiety
Humiliation
Irritability
Loss of interest
Aggression or rage

Protective Factors Against Suicide

Connections to individuals and family, a sense of community
Problem-solving skills and appropriate coping skills
A sense of purpose or meaning in life
Cultural, religious, or personal beliefs that discourage suicide
Access to effective mental health care

This September, suicide prevention awareness is maybe even more important. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to challenging situations, financial hardships, disrupted relationships, anxiety, and isolation for so many of us. Like other risk factors, including trauma, mental disorders, social stressors, and psychological vulnerabilities, the current difficulties from the pandemic could heighten suicidal thoughts in some people. Fortunately, there is help available. If needed, please contact one of the crisis help sources below or qualified mental health professional.