Suicide Prevention: "Creating hope through action"
Observed on September 10th every year, World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) provides the opportunity for people across the globe, to raise awareness of suicide and suicide prevention. It’s an opportunity to raise awareness, reduce the stigma around suicide and encourage well informed action to reduce instances of suicide around the world. This year's theme is "creating hope through action" so we wanted to take a moment to share ways you can help.
One in every 100 deaths worldwide is the result of suicide and it can affect every one of us. Each and every suicide is devastating and has a profound impact on those around them. While suicide is one of the United States’ top public health crises, there are many resources for support and you can #BeThe1To help.
Risk Factors and Warning Signs: Suicidal thoughts are complex and so are the factors and causes that lead to suicide. There’s no single approach that works for everyone but we do know that there are certain factors and life events that may make someone more vulnerable to suicide and mental health conditions. Here are some of the risk factors and warning signs:
Risk Factors:
Mental health disorders, particularly mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and certain personality disorders
Alcohol and other substance use disorders
Hopelessness
Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies
History of trauma or abuse
Major physical illnesses
Previous suicide attempt(s)
Family history of suicide
Job or financial loss
Loss of relationship(s)
Easy access to lethal means
Local clusters of suicide
Lack of social support and sense of isolation
Stigma associated with asking for help
Lack of healthcare, especially mental health and substance abuse treatment
Cultural and religious beliefs, such as the belief that suicide is a noble resolution of a personal dilemma
Exposure to others who have died by suicide (in real life or via the media and Internet)
Warning Signs
Some warning signs may help you determine if a loved one is at risk for suicide, especially if the behavior is new, has increased, or seems related to a painful event, loss, or change. If you or someone you know exhibits any of these, seek help by calling the National Suicide Lifeline 800-273-8255, one of your local crisis resources or by going to the nearest ER.
Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves
Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online or buying a gun
Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
Talking about being a burden to others
Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
Sleeping too little or too much
Withdrawing or isolating themselves
Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
Extreme mood swings
Neglect of personal appearance
We can all take action:
Evidence shows that providing support services, talking about suicide, reducing access to means of self-harm, and following up with loved ones are just some of the actions we can all actions we can take to help others. Suicide is not inevitable for anyone. By starting the conversation, providing support, and directing help to those who need it, we can prevent suicides and save lives. Here are some ways to help someone who may be thinking about suicide:
#BeThe1To 👉Ask - Don’t be afraid of talking about suicide. Connecting with a friend, colleague or loved one in a direct and non judgmental manner is an important step.
Before you start the conversation be prepared, have a list of resources and think about what you’ll say.
You can start by mentioning the signs that prompted you to ask about suicide like “I noticed you've talked about feeling hopeless a lot lately." This makes it clear that you are not asking "out of the blue," and makes it more difficult for the person to deny that something is bothering them.
Ask directly about suicide. Talking about suicide does NOT put the idea in someone's head and usually they’re relieved. Asking directly and using the word "suicide" establishes that you and the person at risk are talking about the same thing and lets the person know that you are willing to talk about suicide. "Sometimes when people talk like that they're thinking about suicide. Are you?"
#BeThe1To 👉Be There - Whether you are able to show up physically or are picking up the phone for a call or text, the presence and support of another person often helps to reduce someone’s sense of hopelessness. Listen, express concern, reassure.
Listen to their reasons for both living and dying. Validate that they're considering both options and underscore that living is an option for them.
"I can imagine how tough this must be for you.” “I understand when you say that you aren't sure if you want to live or die. Have you always felt this way?” “Maybe there's a chance you won't feel this way forever. I can help."
Let the person know you care. Letting them know that you take their situation seriously, and you are genuinely concerned about them, will go a long way in your effort to support them.
"I'm really concerned about you and I want you to know that help is available to get you through this."
#BeThe1To 👉Keep Them Safe - If you are in a situation where someone confirms that they are contemplating self harm or suicide it is important to identify their immediate safety needs.
Do they have a plan? Ask about access to lethal means (weapons, medications, etc) & remove them from the vicinity. (Another friend, family member or law enforcement agent may be needed to assist with this.) Don't put yourself in danger and call 911 if you're concerned for the immediate safety of yourself or others.
Create a safety plan: Ask what would keep them safe until they can meet with a professional. Get a verbal commitment that they won't use substances and/or harm themselves
#BeThe1To 👉Help Them Connect - Help with ongoing support for people struggling with suicidal ideation by assisting them in building a safety network. Encourage (and assist) them to connect with all available resources.
If they've been thinking about suicide, have a plan and/or have access to lethal means it's best to call 911 or go to your local ER or crisis center. Some counties even have a mobile crisis team that will come to the home to assess. Be sure to check out your local resources.
For less immediate safety concerns reach out to a professional, or other local resources. Provide them with the resources you’ve come prepared with. If they’re resistant to seeing a professional try calling saying something like: I understand if it feels awkward to go see a counselor. But there is a phone number we can call to talk to somebody. Maybe they can help?" Then call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. "
#BeThe1To 👉Follow Up - After you’ve connected them with the immediate support systems they need, make sure to follow up to see how they’re doing. Checking in with someone you know is struggling is a powerful way to remind them they are remembered, cared for, and most importantly, not alone.
Local Resources:
Delaware County Crisis Connections Team/Mobile Crisis
855-889-7827
Philadelphia Office of Behavioral Health Emergency & Information Line
215-685-6440
Horsham Clinic
800-237-4447
Brooke Glen Hospital
800-256-5300
Malvern Behavioral Health
610-480-8919
National Resources:
National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264
Veterans Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1
Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1−800−799−7233
If you have reason to believe that someone is in imminent risk of harm contact 911.
Serenity Behavioral Health is here to help. Whether its getting connected to one of our providers, participating in our IOP program or discussing other resources and treatment options our team is committed to helping youth and their families. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us 610-446-1861.
