Preventing suicide

The month of September has been identified as National Suicide Prevention month. Suicide is a major public health issue globally, with long-lasting effects on individuals, families, and communities. It is imperative that conversations are had, about how suicide can be prevented; and knowing the strategies to be employed by all levels of Society. Suicide can be prevented by learning the warning signs, promoting prevention and resilience, and committing to social change. What leads to suicide? There’s no single cause for suicide. Suicide most often occurs when stressors and health issues converge to create an experience of hopelessness and despair. Depression is the most common condition associated with suicide, and it is often undiagnosed or untreated. Conditions like depression, anxiety, and substance problems, especially when unaddressed, increase risk for suicide. Yet it’s important to note that most people who actively manage their mental health conditions go on to engage in life. Risk factors Risk factors are characteristics or conditions that increase the chance that a person may try to take their life. Health Mental health conditions Depression Substance use problems Bipolar disorder Schizophrenia Personality traits of aggression, mood changes and poor relationships Conduct disorder Anxiety disorders Serious physical health conditions including pain Traumatic brain injury Environmental Access to lethal means including firearms and drugs. Prolonged stress, such as harassment, bullying, relationship problems or unemployment. Stressful life events, like rejection, divorce, financial crisis, other life transitions or loss Exposure to another person’s suicide, or to graphic or sensationalized accounts of suicide Historical Previous suicide attempts Family history of suicide Childhood abuse, neglect or trauma Protective Factors Access to mental health care, and being proactive about mental health Feeling connected to family and community support Problem-solving and coping skills Limited access to lethal means Cultural and religious beliefs that encourage connecting and help-seeking, discourage suicidal behavior, or create a strong sense of purpose or self-esteem. Warning signs Something to look out for when concerned that a person may be suicidal is a change in behaviour or the presence of entirely new behaviours. This is of sharpest concern if the new or changed behaviour is related to a painful event, loss, or change. Most people who take their lives exhibit one or more warning signs, either through what they say or what they do. Talk If a person talks about: Killing themselves Feeling hopeless Having no reason to live Being a burden to others Feeling trapped Unbearable pain Behaviour Behaviours that may signal risk, especially if related to a painful event, loss or change: Increased use of alcohol or drugs Looking for a way to end their lives, such as searching online for methods. Withdrawing from activities Isolating from family and friends Sleeping too much or too little Visiting or calling people to say goodbye. Giving away prized possessions Aggression Fatigue Mood People who are considering suicide often display one or more of the following moods: Depression Anxiety Loss of interest Irritability Humiliation/Shame Agitation/Anger Relief/Sudden Improvement Summary Beyond direct interventions to stop an impending suicide, methods may include: treating mental illness improving coping strategies of people who are at risk. reducing risk factors for suicide, such as substance misuse, poverty and social vulnerability giving people hope for a better life after current problems are resolved. calling a suicide hotline number If you are concerned about someone in your life, learn more about the ways you can get help and discover tools you can use to have real honest conversations about mental health.