Resources
Understanding Suicide
Suicide impacts individuals worldwide, although some groups are at higher risk than others. Studies have revealed that males are about four times more likely to commit suicide than women. Conversely, women are known to think or express suicidal thoughts more than men. In addition, women make more nonfatal attempts than men.
On top of that, young adults between 18-29 are more likely to have suicidal thoughts, plan a suicide attempt, and follow through on their attempted plan compared to adults over the age of 30 years old. In addition, American Indian and Alaska Natives, rural populations, and active or retired military personnel are significantly more at risk, too.
Suicide continues to rise amongst all age groups throughout the United States. It is necessary for individuals to learn how to support others and to understand ways to prevent it. It helps to know the warning signs of suicide.
When someone you know demonstrates the following warning signs, quickly use the 988 Lifeline number or connect the person to supportive services.
See more information and our resources below.
Facts About Suicide
There has been a 45% increase in overall 988 call volume within the first month of opening the line.
12.2 million Americans thought about suicide in 2020
In 2020 it has been reported that an estimated 3.2 million Americans planned a suicide attempt and 1.2 million Americans attempted suicide.
There are over 200 crisis call centers spread throughout the United States.
SOURCE: www.namica.org and https://www.social-current.org/
Common Myths
There are many misconceptions when it comes to suicide. Below are a few common assumptions to become aware of.
Myth: People who talk about suicide rarely ever act on it.
Fact: According to data and research, 75% of people who attempt suicide actually talk about it with friends, family, or coworkers beforehand.
Myth: If someone wants to commit suicide, there is nothing I can do about it.
Fact: People are seeking their pain to go away, and most don't do not want to die. They don't want to remain in pain. For every "successful" suicide, there are 20 to 100 failed attempts.
Myth: People who commit suicide are poor and uneducated.
Fact: Middle-aged Caucasian males commit suicide more than any other population.
Myth: Talking about suicide increases the risk.
Fact: Studies have found this is not the case. Many people find it hard to bring up the topic, but talking about it often leads the intended individual to open up and seek help.
What is the 988 Lifeline?
The 988 Lifeline works similarly to 911. Individuals who are at risk of harming themselves or others due to mental related stress can call the free line to speak with one of their highly trained crisis counselors. Likewise, it is also for anyone who is suffering from anger, depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts. Counselors are their to listen and provide support when someone needs to be heard.
Additionally, if you know know someone who may be suicidal or at risk, you can call the 988 Lifeline as well. You will be connected to the call center nearest you. The counselors will be able to direct you to organizations, support groups, and resources in your area.
Call or text for resources today.
5 Steps to Follow
1. Ask
If someone may be at risk, it is key to ask, "Are you thinking about suicide?" Sometimes all that an individual needs is someone to open up the conversation so they can share their pain and struggles.
2. Be There
Whether in person or over the phone, it is your role to listen actively so the individual knows they are not alone and have someone to talk to.
3. Help Keep Them Safe
If the person is suicidal, pay extra close attention to the details. Find out if they have a plan or have considered a timeline. Reach out to 988 to get support on how you can help.
4. Help Them Connect
If someone is experiencing a crisis, point them in the direction to get help. Encourage the individual to call or text the 988 Lifeline number so they can speak with one of the trained counselors.
5. Follow Up
Once you are sure the immediate crisis period is over, make it a point to follow up. A phone call or text can make a real difference.
Links
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a great tool for individuals who may know someone considering suicide. Check out their resources to learn how you can best help someone during their time of need.
The National Alliance of Mental Health provides great resources for individuals supporting of all ages struggling with a mental illnesses. Click HERE to find resources and classes you can sign up for in your local area.
Wounded Warriors offers many resources for those who have served in the military and are struggling with depression and mental health, . Your warrior can join care networks in your local area or even sign up for one of their programs to help them overcome the wounds that are not visible on the outside.
Center for Young Women's Health is a great free resource for women struggling with anxiety, depression, and suicide. This resource will direct young women struggling with mental health in your life to guides ranging from physical to mental health topics.
Mental Health Literacy is a jam packed resource for youth and teens. If you are a parent, educator, or friend you will want to check out the tools they offer.
Many Veterans have experienced events and circumstances that are unparalleled to most. Mission Reconnect provides the tools so Veterans can reduce post-traumatic stress from their time of service.
National Institute for Mental Health provides a variety of articles and tools to find help for your loved one.
Click HERE to be connected to a list of books for parents and educators supporting children and teens with anger, depression, and other mental health related concerns.
Downloadable Resources
At Prevention Intervention, it is important for us to get the facts and statistics of suicide out to the public. Feel free to download our flyer we use to distribute at car shows and local events.
Support for Suicidal Individuals
is a free to download. It shares how you can support someone who is expressing suicidal thoughts and actions online.
National Institute for mental Health has a pdf document on the warning signs of suicide. Visit their website to download it.
Survivors of Suicide Loss
You are not alone. Millions of Americans are impacted from the loss of someone close to them due to suicide. Alliance of Hope has a free forum allowing you to connect with others seeking hope and healing.
Click HERE to check out the resources and guides Samaritans has to offer for those who are recovering from a loss due to suicide.
Alliance of Hope is filled with tips and tools on how to talk with your child after their loss. Be sure to visit their site to download their free e-book Children, Teens, & Suicide Loss.
Books
