by Sara Jackson, LCSW
Center for Safe & Healthy Families
Youth suicide has unfortunately become a pressing matter in the past few years. With the increased stresses that youth face, some consider suicide because they simply do not know how to ease their pain. In fact, according to the International Association for Suicide Prevention, “Every year, over 800,000 people die from suicide; this roughly corresponds to one death every 40 seconds.”
Although the numbers are heart-wrenching, you can make a difference. Just talking to someone, lending a shoulder to cry on or showing your support can save a life.
Below are some signs that someone may be at risk:
- Withdrawing from friends, family or community
- Seeking access to firearms, pills, or other means to harm oneself
- Talking or writing about death, dying, or suicide
- Feeling hopeless
- Acting angry or seeking revenge
- Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities
- Increase in alcohol or drug use
- Seeing no reason for living or feeling no sense of purpose in life
- Feeling anxious or agitated
- Changes in sleep habits - with the inability to sleep or sleeping all the time
- Talking about wanting to hurt or kill one’s self
- Experiencing dramatic mood changes
- Taking little interest or pleasure in doing things more than half the time
If you notice these symptoms in someone or are concerned that someone you know may be at risk of attempting suicide, don’t delay or ignore your concerns. Seek help right away.
Here are some ways to get help:
- Call 911
- Call or go to your nearest emergency room
- Call your family doctor and ask for help
- Call a crisis hotline:
- Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK
- National Suicide Hope Line: 1-800-784-2433
- NAMI Utah: 1-801-323-9900 or 1-877-230-6264
- Para la Prevención de Suicidio: 1-888-628-9454
Remember, even just checking with someone to see how they are doing can save a life. Be proactive and voice your concerns to keep your loved ones safe and healthy.
Additional Resources:
About Teen Suicide (info for parents)
My Friend is Talking About Suicide (article for teens)
