September is Suicide Prevention Month, an opportunity to focus on the prevalence of suicide in our communities and talk about steps we can all take to support mental health and suicide prevention. Suicide is the second leading cause of death in young people, and deeply impacts our work here at Nexus Family Healing.
According to the American Psychological Association (2021), there is new research in suicide prevention trying to determine who is most at risk. Suicide risk in teens is perhaps even more difficult to assess than in adults, said Cheryl King, Ph.D., a clinical child and adolescent psychologist at the University of Michigan Medical School. The prevalence of suicidal thoughts and behavior peaks in the teen years, even though the rate of death by suicide is lower among teens than among older age groups.
Warning signs to watch for
There are many resources out there, but it’s always good to go over the basics of preventing suicide – knowing what signs to look for in others that they may be experiencing suicidal ideation.
- Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves – this one may seem obvious, but it’s important to reiterate that any talk like this must be taken seriously.
- Expressing feelings of emptiness, hopelessness, feeling trapped or having no reason to live, living with unbearable physical and/or emotional pain.
- Becoming more withdrawn from friends, family, and society.
- Showing extreme mood swings, such as being emotionally high one day and deeply discouraged the next. For example, being extremely happy one day and then the next are showing rage and talking about “seeking revenge.”
- Increased use of alcohol, substances, or other unhealthy and dangerous coping habits.
- Sleeping habits have drastically changed – they aren’t getting enough, or they are spending all day in bed.
- Displaying anxiety, agitation, or engaging in reckless behavior.
- Other odd behavior like giving away prized possessions, getting affairs in order, saying goodbye to people as if they won’t see them again.
What to do
What to do if someone tells you they are having suicidal thoughts?
- First, stay calm. Your steady presence can provide comfort to the person who is telling you they are having these thoughts. Don’t immediately rush to action.
- Listen carefully. Let them talk without interruption and show that you are listening and that you care.
- Take them seriously; do not dismiss their feelings. Acknowledge the pain and seriousness of the situation and encourage them to seek professional help.
- Offer to help find resources. Assist them in locating a therapist, counselor, or support group.
- Remove immediate dangers. If possible, ensure they do not have access to means of self-harm.
- Do not promise to keep this a secret. While it’s important to respect their privacy, you may need to reach out to others to ensure their safety.
- Stay with them. If the risk is immediate, stay with them and call for emergency assistance. Follow up – after the immediate crisis, continue to check in with them regularly.
Remember that you, or your loved one who may be experiencing these thoughts and feelings, are not alone. There are hotlines and services available 24/7 to provide guidance and support for both those who are experiencing suicidal ideation and those trying to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out.
Recommended reading
- Arango, A., et al. Saving lives: Recognizing and intervening with youth at risk for suicide. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, 2021
This blog article was contributed by Carlos Aquino, Clinical Assessment Specialist.
