Suicide prevention among all ages and demographic groups has never been more important, as we witness increasing mental health concerns from months of social isolation and pandemic trauma. More than 47,500 Americans died by suicide in 2019, making suicide the tenth leading cause of death in the U.S. Working together, we can make a positive difference for everyone.
The circumstances that lead someone to consider suicide are varied, and a suicide attempt almost always involves more than one source of stress or pain. But three simple steps — learn, connect, act — are important parts of preventing suicide at home, at work and in the community. And National Suicide Prevention Month in September, is a perfect time for anyone to support the effort.
Learn. There are specific situations you can identify for suicide prevention.
Researchers have studied suicide prevention for decades. They have identified specific things that put someone at a higher risk for suicide, including health, environmental and historical factors. Some of these include:
Health
- Depression and/or anxiety disorders
- Substance abuse
- Traumatic brain injury
- Serious health conditions, including pain
Environmental
- ontinuing stress, such as harassment, bullying, relationship problems, unemployment
- Stressful life events, such as rejection, divorce, financial crisis
- Suicide exposure from another person or from graphic accounts in the news, movies, games or other forms of media
- Easy access to firearms and drugs
Historical
- Family history of suicide
- Abuse, trauma or neglect during childhood
- Previous suicide attempt(s)
None of these factors alone can cause or predict a suicide attempt. But when someone you know faces any of them, regular communication can help prevent suicide and keep your loved one, friend or neighbor safe.
Connect. Listen, speak and check in with the people around you.
Feeling connected to family and community support helps anyone feel healthier, safer and happier. When you invest in friendly conversations with loved ones, coworkers and neighbors, you are increasing social connection. This simple act often reduces feelings of isolation or loneliness — for others and for yourself.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention offers important tips on speaking to someone with risk factors for suicide who is struggling.
- Continuing stress, such as harassment, bullying, relationship problems, unemployment
- Stressful life events, such as rejection, divorce, financial crisis
- Suicide exposure from another person or from graphic accounts in the news, movies, games or other forms of media
- Easy access to firearms and drugs
Connecting with someone can happen any time, whether you are together in person or miles apart. Reaching out to a friend with care and intention can make a real difference for someone going through a difficult time.
And remember, it might feel scary to ask “Are you thinking about suicide.” But experts agree that it is the best way to keep someone safe. Researchers have found that asking this question will not make someone more likely to attempt suicide. Rather, it creates a conversation that will bring most suicidal people a sense of relief. Experts also stress not to be afraid to use the word suicide; when discussing the possibility of suicide you need to avoid any misunderstanding or confusion.
Act. Remove dangerous items and find help.
If you find yourself communicating with someone who is thinking about suicide, your simple actions can create life-saving care.
Research shows that suicide prevention in communities dramatically increases, the less access people have to means of suicide. If you are talking to someone in crisis, move together to a building or room without easy access to weapons, drugs or other deadly items. If you’re speaking on the phone, ask your friend to go to the safest area or room nearby. Tell them their suffering is temporary, and you are getting them help.
Stay with your friend in whatever way you can, whether in person or on the phone. And seek the experts who are trained to keep people safe when suicide is involved.
The best help in a crisis comes from the Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255. This is a free 24/7/365 resource staffed by people with specialized training to help you prevent suicide — for someone you know or for yourself. And always, in an emergency, call 911 first.
If you or someone in your care is at risk for a mental health crisis, perhaps including self harm or suicide, you aren’t alone. The Vitals™ App can help increase safety, care and peace of mind.
What I like the most about Vitals™ is I have the ability to control what goes in my profile. I can put in as little or as much information as I like. What I know is going to help me.
