It’s Suicide Prevention Month and Here’s What You Need to Know.
September is National Suicide Prevention Month. According to the CDC, suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the United States. In the past 10 years, rates of suicide have been the highest ever in the country. Raising awareness will give yourself and others the tools to recognize warning signs and triggers, get the correct access to help, and provide better community support. Here’s what you can do.
Notice warning signs. Common warning signs are: talking about suicide (even if it’s a joke), talking about not wanting to be here anymore, giving away personal items, expressing hopelessness, exhibiting major changes in behavior, withdrawing from friends or family, presenting with depressed mood, irritability or excessive anger, and experiencing major changes in sleep.
Triggers and other factors to consider: Does this person have a history of mental illness or trauma? Have they attempted suicide before? Do they have a history of self-harm? Did they recently go through a major life event (loss of family or friend, divorce, change in environment)?
Ask questions. Keep in mind not all people show major warning signs. If you are concerned about a family member or friend, do not wait for them to come to you. Now is the time to ask questions. Be specific and ask in a way that is caring. Ex. “I noticed you have been withdrawing and seem more down lately. Have you ever thought about suicide?”
Be present and listen. Ask open-ended, non judgmental questions. If the person has a plan, get help immediately. You can call 911 or a local mental health facility.
Follow up. People struggling with thoughts of suicide need to know that they are not alone, and that they are not a burden. Be a support and continue to follow up.
If you or someone you know are struggling, seek help immediately.
Important resources:
Suicide and Crisis lifeline: Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org
Psychiatric Hospitals in the Houston Area:
Cypress Creek: 281-586-7600
Woodland Springs: 936-270-7520
Harris County: 713-741-5000
