There has been a dramatic increase in suicides. In fact, the CDC reports a 25 percent increase since 1999. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, the statistics are startling:
- Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S.; it is one of only three causes that is on the rise.
- Each year, nearly 45,000 Americans die by suicide – that is 123 per day.
- Firearms make up about half of all suicides. In states where there are stricter gun control laws, there tends to be a lower rate of suicide by firearm.
- Of the individuals who died by suicide in the 27 states that contribute to the National Violent Death Reporting System, 54 percent did not have a known mental illness.
- Based on the CDC's 2015 Youth Risk Behaviors Survey, nearly nine percent of youth in grades 9 to 12 reported that they had made at least one suicide attempt in the past 12 months.
Why suicide?
The rise can be attributed to several reasons. States with more limited access to mental health services and slower economic recovery demonstrated higher rates. Substance use disorders are also believed to be contributing to the rising rates of suicide.
My colleagues and I are often asked why someone would commit suicide. The specific reason why someone would take their own life may never be known. However, there is a quote from Reducing Suicide: A National Imperative, by the Institute of Medicine, that I believe provides a good sense of what suicidal individuals experience.
It reads, “Suicide is ultimately a private act. It is difficult to put into words the suffering and agonized state of mind of those who kill themselves…A minority of those who kill themselves actually write suicide notes, and these only infrequently try to communicate the complex reasons for the act. Still, some consistent psychological themes emerge. Clearest of these is the presence of unendurable heartache, captured in the simple phrase, ‘I can’t stand the pain any longer.’”
Who is at risk?
While the causes are varied, the risk factors may be related to health or mental health conditions, environmental factors, or family history as well.
Health issues that increase risk include a:
- mental health condition
- serious or chronic health condition, particularly chronic pain
- traumatic brain injury
- recent suicide attempt or recent discharge from a psychiatric unit
Environmental factors that may increase risk include:
- access to lethal means
- prolonged exposure to stress
- stressful life events, such as a death, relationship break-up, or job loss
- exposure to another person’s suicide
Historical risk factors include:
- a history of suicide attempts
- a family history of suicide
- experiencing childhood abuse, neglect, or trauma
The signs
People who have considered taking their own lives often show signs. The individual may talk about any of the following:
- feeling hopeless or trapped
- being in extreme pain
- feeling like a burden
- feeling suicidal
There are some behaviors that are often red flags as well, including:
- researching ways to kill oneself
- increasing isolation
- visiting or saying goodbye to people
- giving away possessions
- increased use of alcohol or drugs
Individuals may appear depressed, anxious, and/or be in an angry mood. Also of concern is someone who may have been depressed or anxious and is suddenly very happy. This may be a sign they have already made the decision to act.
What to do
You can be the person to help someone who is struggling. If you suspect someone you know is suicidal, it is vital to be supportive and kind. Listen to the person, but know your limits, and help them get the support needed.
Do not leave the person alone if you are concerned the risk is imminent. Of note, there was a study of people who attempted suicide. They indicated that not much time passed between the time the decision was made to commit suicide and acting on it. About a quarter of those surveyed said 5 minutes or less, while another 47 percent said an hour or less. This tells us that while suicide is often something people think about, it seems that the ultimate decision is an impulsive one.
Do not be afraid to ask them if they have thought about suicide. It is a myth that talking about suicide with someone may be viewed as encouragement. In fact, talking openly about it may help someone realize they have options.
Resources
If you are worried about an imminent risk call 9-1-1 immediately.
The Lifespan Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Access Center can connect individuals to a range of outpatient assessment and treatment resources. Call our access center at 401-606-0606.
There are also hotlines for people to call, including the National Suicide Prevention Hotline 800-273-TALK, and the Samaritans 401-272-4044 or 1-800-365-4044.
Remember, there is help. Learn more about how we can help you or a loved one on our website.
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