Suicide Prevention

Suicide is a serious public health problem that has shattered the lives of millions of people, families, and communities nationwide.

 

Facts about Suicide:

 

Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States, claiming more than twice as many lives each year as homicides.

 

More than 8 million adults reported having serious suicidal thoughts in the past year, 2.5 million people reported making a suicide plan in the past year, and 1.1 million reported a suicide attempt in the past year.

 

 

 

How You Can Play a Role in Preventing Suicide WARNING SIGNS OF SUICIDAL BEHAVIORS Everyone can play a role in preventing suicide by being aware of the warning signs of suicidal behaviors:

• Talking about wanting to die; feeling hopeless, trapped, or in unbearable pain; being a burden to others;
• Looking for a way to kill oneself;
• Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs; 
• Acting anxious, agitated, or reckless; 
• Sleeping too little or too much;
• Withdrawing or feeling isolated; 
• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge; and 
• Displaying extreme mood swings.

WHAT YOU CAN DO If you believe someone is at risk of suicide: 

• Ask them if they are thinking about killing themselves. (This will not put the idea into their heads, or make it more likely that they will attempt suicide.); 
• Call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255); 
• Take the person to an emergency room or seek help from a medical or mental health professional; 
• Remove any objects that could be used in a suicide attempt; and 
• If possible, do not leave the person alone.

RESOURCES For additional information about the National Strategy for Suicide Prevention, visit: http://www.samhsa.gov/nssp http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org