Take a Minute for Mental Health During Suicide Prevention Month
September is Suicide Awareness Month and time for us to discuss a reality that is both tragic and affects many. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. In 2020, 132 Americans died by suicide each day and 1.4 million people attempted suicide. 90% of those who have died by suicide had a diagnosable mental health condition such as depression. Suicide DOES NOT need to be the end result for anyone.
First we need to familiarize ourselves with suicide risk factors such as:
Mood disorders
Substance Abuse
Hopelessness
Impulsive or aggressive behavior
History of trauma
Major Physical Illness
Previous suicide attempt
Family history of suicide
Job loss or financial despair
Recent relationship loss
Access to lethal means
Lack of social supports
Secondly, we need to know the warning signs such as:
Talking about wanting to die
Talking about having no reason to live
Feeling trapped in their pain
Talking about being a burden to others
Increase in substance usage
Acting anxious or agitated
Impulsive behavior
Extreme mood swings
The first step in helping someone you are concerned about is to ask if they’re thinking about suicide. This may feel awkward but it is necessary. Research shows people will tell the truth when asked. We can help keep them safe by removing or reducing access to lethal means. Immediate services such as therapy and counseling need to be offered. When an in-person therapist isn’t an option, local crisis centers and hotlines can be invaluable. Help them connect with ongoing support and stay connected with that person. Starting the conversation, offering support, and connecting someone to help can prevent deaths by suicide.
There are several agencies in the La Crosse area that offer therapy and counseling as well as RCW. We can provide referrals for those seeking help outside of RCW. Below are some local resources:
La Crosse County has a 24 hour Crisis Line: 608-784-HELP
Great Rivers 211
Gundersen Health System Behavioral Health: 1-800-362-9567
Mayo Clinic Health System Behavioral Health: 608-392-9555