Suicide Prevention

About this topic

Suicide is a major health concern. Suicide affects people of all ages, genders, and races. It is important to learn about the risk factors for suicide. Then you may be able to help. ‚
People at risk of suicide may have a history of: ‚

Low mood, depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia
Substance abuse or previous suicide attempt
Violence in the family or physical or sexual abuse
Mental illness or suicide in the family
Access to guns or other lethal ways of harming oneself
Time in prison or jail
Stressful events like job loss, bullying, or death of a family member
A graphic or traumatic event like being in the military or war
Changes in brain chemicals called neurotransmitters

Others may also share these same histories but do not go on to commit suicide. A suicide attempt is a sign of an extreme problem and is much more than a cry for attention. ‚

General

It is important to learn about the warning signs and risk factors of suicide. This makes it easier to offer help early on. ‚
Warning Signs of Suicide ‚
Suicide often happens after a stressful event in life. People who are thinking about suicide may: ‚

Talk about suicide, a wish to die, or wanting the pain to end
Feel hopeless, helpless, worthless, or feeling like there is no way out of a situation
Have a sense of feeling trapped or unable to escape from a situation
Lose interest in activities or sports enjoyed before
Act irrationally or nervous
Keep to themselves. They may refuse to take part in family activities or social gatherings.
Sleep too much or too little
Tell people that they may not be around anymore
Have sudden or dramatic changes in behavior
Believe that death is the only answer to the problem

How Family and Friends Can Help Prevent Suicide ‚

If there are warning signs:
- Dont be afraid to ask if they are thinking about suicide.
- Do not leave the person alone. Give more support and show that other people do care.
Pay attention to the life events of those around you.
It is important that family and friends listen closely and give emotional support. Be open and do not judge. This makes it easier to talk about problems.
Talk with your family and friends if you notice a change in behavior. This is very important if the change happens suddenly or you do not know the reason for the change.
Be a role model. Everyone needs someone to look up to when learning how to deal with family problems or hard times.
Suggest counseling or talk therapy. This can help people deal with stress, low mood, and other hard times in life. Offer to make the appointment and go with them. Reassure them they can be helped.
Look for and help point out depression. Early treatment with drugs and therapy may help prevent suicide. Learn the warning signs of suicide. Get help right away if your friend or family member shows warning signs of suicide.
Keep away things that may trigger means of suicide. Take extra care to keep guns locked safely. Be sure to limit access to knives, ropes, or drugs.
If your friend or family member tries to harm themselves, they need to be seen by a mental health provider. Get expert help.
Seek support. Take the person to an emergency room. Call a suicide crisis hotline.

What to Do if You Are Thinking About Suicide ‚

Call your mental health professional or doctor.
Call a close friend to talk about your feelings.
Call for emergency help or go to the nearest emergency room.

What can be done to prevent this health problem?

Just like there are risk factors for suicide, there are certain things that are protective when it comes to suicide. Work to develop skills and behaviors like: ‚

Problem solving and ways to resolve conflicts
Connecting with family and friends in relationships
Getting treatment for mental health or substance abuse problems
Cultural beliefs that discourage suicide and encourage seeking help and preserving life

Where can I learn more?

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention ‚
http://www.afsp.org/preventing-suicide/risk-factors-and-warning-signs ‚
Centers for Disease Control ‚
http://www.cdc.gov/Features/PreventingSuicide/ ‚
National Institute of Mental Health ‚
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/suicide-in-america/index.shtml ‚

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer

This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚

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