The Prevention and Detection of Suicide
Suicide Detection and Prevention. Once a year, we observe Suicide Prevention Month in September. With recent statistics reporting a rise in suicide attempts/deaths, especially among the ages of 15 to 19 years old. It is essential to understand more about this serious public health matter.
With a decrease in stigma, treatment for mental health issues contributing to suicidal intent and prevention is more attainable. Here is a look at some evidence-based practice to help address and prevent suicidal ideation.
Risk Factors for Suicide
It is important to understand that there is not a single cause for suicide. Suicide does not discriminate, and affects all different demographics, genders, ages, and statuses. However, there are risk factors associated with suicide that may put some people at a higher risk for suicide.
Risk factors associated with suicide include, but are not limited to:
Suicide Detection and Prevention
What are the early warning signs of suicide intention?
Early detection of warning signs and intervention can lead to professional support and treatment, and can even save an individual’s life. It is important to be able to recognize early warning signs, especially for high-risk individuals. Asking even the simple, yet direct question, “Are you having thoughts of suicide?’ can greatly reduce the chance for a suicide attempt.
Early Warning Signs of Suicidal Ideation:
With greater awareness of these early warning signs, especially some of the less obvious. It is easier to know when to intervene and get help for the individual.
What can I do as a Family Member or Friend?
A number 1 rule of practice when addressing suicide with an individual at risk, is to assume you are the only one who knows. By assuming this, we have a stronger inclination to reach out to get professional help for the individual. If you suspect someone is at risk for suicide, discussing it or asking if they are having suicidal thoughts will not make them take action. Often an individual contemplating suicide feels isolated and unsupported.
Here are some suggestions on starting a conversation about suicide:
How to seek help for suicidal thoughts?
Do you feel suicidal or have a close one that is? If so call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
If you would like to learn more about how to get help for yourself or an individual experiencing the thought of suicide, please reach out and contact us at 407-967-1327.
