Suicide Prevention Week and World Suicide Prevention Day are dedicated in the month of September. Throughout the month of September, I will be in the classrooms teaching lessons about suicide prevention. You may notice your student coming home with a National Suicide Prevention Lifeline card. This resource is a free 24/7 service to provide support to any individual struggling with thoughts of suicide. Your school counselor is a resource in assisting with any mental health needs.
Understanding warning signs and risk factors are vital to preventing suicide. When we understand what to look for in our loved ones, we can intervene and provide support before the unthinkable occurs. Outlines below are common warning signs and risk factors associated with those who commit suicide.
Warning Signs:
- An individual is talking about killing themselves, feeling hopeless, having no reason to live, being a burden to others, feeling trapped, or unbearable pain.
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs.
- Researching different methods to end their life.
- Withdrawing from activities.
- Isolating from family and friends.
- Giving away prized possessions.
- Visiting or calling people to say goodbye.
- Changes in sleeping and eating patterns.
Risk Factors:
- Mental Health Conditions; Depression, Substance Abuse, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety disorder, etc.
- Access to lethal means, including firearms and drugs.
- Prolonged stress, such as harassment, bullying, relationship problems.
- Stressful life events, like rejection, divorce, financial crisis, or other transition or loss.
- Exposure to another individual's suicide or graphics of suicide.
- History of suicide ideation or attempts.
- Family history of suicide.
- Child abuse, neglect, or trauma.
It is important to note that if you or your loved one are experiencing any of the above, it does not mean you are suicidal. It simply means you are at risk. The best way to respond is by checking in and letting the person know you are there for them. If an individual discloses to you that they are contemplating suicide, contact a counselor, crisis line, or 911 for assistance. To learn more about how you can prevent suicide, visit https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/.
