As we enter September, it's crucial to reflect on and raise awareness about a topic that has long been stigmatized in our society—suicide. Currently, suicide ranks as the 11th leading cause of death in the United States. Given its alarming prevalence, it's time to shift away from the taboo surrounding this issue and toward a more empathetic, solution-focused approach.
To begin, let's look at the most recent statistics on suicide, provided by the CDC and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. It's important to remember these stats are simply an estimate based on reported data. Unfortunately due to the stigma and other factors, many instances of suicidal ideation or attempts go unreported.
National Statistics
Men died by suicide 3.85 times more than women. While both men and women make attempts, men complete suicide at a higher rate than women.
White males accounted for 68.46% of suicide deaths
Suicide rates are highest for the 85+ age bracket, followed by those 75-84 years of age.
Firearms accounted for 54.64% of all suicide deaths
Texas Statistics
Risk Factors
You may be wondering where suicidal thoughts come from. The reality is, there's no single cause we can point to. Instead, a combination of internal and external factors often plays a role. When stressors intensify, feelings of hopelessness and despair can become overwhelming, potentially leading to suicidal ideation. Below are some common factors that may increase the risk of someone attempting suicide.
These individual factors, or a combination of them, can contribute to an individual's experience of suicidal ideation. However, it’s important to remember that not everyone who encounters these challenges will go on to attempt suicide.
Warning Signs
With the risk factors in mind, it is also imperative to be familiar with the warning signs in order to provide early intervention and support.
Talk: Individuals at risk may begin verbalizing their pain and feelings of hopelessness. This can manifest in vague statements like, “I have no reason to live” or “I am a burden,” or in more explicit expressions such as, “I want to kill myself.”
Behavior: Risk-related behaviors can include increased substance use, searching for methods to harm themselves, withdrawing or isolating from others, displaying heightened aggression, experiencing fatigue, and giving away cherished possessions.
Mood: Significant mood changes are also warning signs. These might include depression, anxiety, loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, irritability, feelings of shame, anger, or agitation. These mood shifts may present as relatively stable or marked by extreme mood swings.
We should be vigilant for any changes in behavior or the emergence of new behaviors, particularly following a painful event or loss. Most individuals contemplating suicide will exhibit at least one, if not multiple, warning signs. Since these signs aren’t always obvious, paying close attention to subtle changes in what someone says and their mood can be the key to recognizing when they may need help.
Over the next month, check back each Monday to learn more about suicide prevention. We will discuss safety planning, resources, and therapy modalities that can aid in reducing suicidal ideations and attempts.
Resources:
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (2024). Suicide statistics [Fact Sheet]. https://afsp.org/suicide-statistics/
American Foundartion for Suicide Prevention (2024). Suicide data: Texas [Fact Sheet]. https://www.datocms-assets.com/12810/1707241704-texas_2023_state_fact_sheet.jpg
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2018). Suicide rising across the US [Fact Sheet]. https://www.cdc.gov/vitalsigns/pdf/vs-0618-suicide-H.pdf
Risk factors, protective factors, and warning signs. American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. (2024, August 9). https://afsp.org/risk-factors-protective-factors-and-warning-signs/
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