September Is
Suicide Prevention Month
Everyone can relate to having an occasional "bad day" filled with stress, anxiety, fear, or sadness. To alleviate these feelings, we may seek support from family or friends and indulge in fun, relaxing activities to lift our spirits and get through the difficult times. However, when someone is in an abusive relationship, home may not be a safe, supportive environment, adding to overwhelming feelings of hopelessness.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI), suicide is the second leading cause of death among people aged 10-34 and the tenth leading cause of death overall in the U.S. Additionally, children and youth exposed to domestic violence, were consistently twice as likely as their non-exposed peers to have at least one suicide attempt and a greater risk of dying by suicide by the age of 20.
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and the goal is to destigmatize conversations about suicide, spread education, awareness and prevention.
Know the warning signs of suicide:
- Increased alcohol and drug use.
- Aggressive behavior.
- Withdrawal from friends, family and community.
- Dramatic mood swings.
- Impulsive or reckless behavior.
- Collecting and saving pills or buying a weapon.
- Giving away possessions.
- Tying up loose ends, like organizing personal papers or paying off debts.
- Saying goodbye to friends and family.
Risk Factors
- A family history of suicide.
- Substance use - Drugs can create mental highs and lows that worsen suicidal thoughts.
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Intoxication - More than 1 in 3 people who die from suicide are under the influence of alcohol at the time of death.
- Access to firearms.
- A serious or chronic medical illness.
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Gender - Although more women than men attempt suicide, men are nearly 4x more likely to die by suicide.
- A history of trauma or abuse.
- Prolonged stress.
- A recent tragedy or loss.
Safety Plan
- Know the person's general information, families contact information, mental health, medical history, and medications.
- List of things of what might help the person.
- If you or someone you know is in an emergency call 911 immediately.
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If you or a loved one is having suicidal thoughts call The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) or call 911 immediately.
For more information on suicide prevention please visit Nami at the link below.
