Suicide is the Leading Cause of Death for People of All Ages
Suicide is the leading cause of death for people of all ages and demographics. The even more troubling fact is that suicide is the most preventable cause of death as well due to the many resources available. What presents a unique challenge is the fact that oftentimes, people struggle to reach out in their most dire times of need. Studies show us there are many reasons why people struggle and refuse to reach out for help when suicidal ideation is present. A few examples would include:
Feeling incredibly isolated
Feeling ashamed
Feeling a sense of hopelessness that nothing or no one can help
Not knowing where to go for help
What if I told you all of these things are misconceptions that lead us to believe we are beyond reaching or beyond hope? It doesn’t make the feelings any less valid nor any less real, but it doesn’t allow us to see that there is truth behind those misconceptions. It’s in the fact that we can reach out and ask for help. So what may the truth look like whenever you are feeling hopeless and suicidal, creativity is at the forefront? Truth can look like these, for example: Even amid darkness, life is worth living.
There is light beyond the darkness. You are not alone. This one is harder to grasp than the others, but its words ring true. Finding help is easier than you think. You can google the suicide hotline, and you can reach out to us through our website or even call us! We are ready to assist you.
It’s sad to say that suicide is the largest and leading cause of death across all demographics, but the good news is we can prevent it. We can prevent it for ourselves by seeking our help. Help is just a call away, and I promise you that you do not have to feel ashamed or embarrassed but rest assured, we are waiting, ready to assist you.
There is another way we can prevent suicide, and that is by educating ourselves and others on the signs of suicide as well as the resources we can offer for counseling and help. Below, you find the most common red flags of suicidal ideation so that you, too, can spot them.
Most Common Red Flags of Suicide:
Feelings or statements of hopelessness
Rage, anger, seeking revenge.
Feeling trapped
Increased alcohol or other drug use
Withdrawal from others
Anxiety, agitation, or sleep problems
Dramatic mood changes
Feelings or statements that reflect not having a reason to live or a sense of purpose.
Threatening to hurt or kill themselves.
Looking for ways to kill themselves, seeking access to pills, weapons, or other means.
Talking or writing about death, dying, or suicide (if it is out of the ordinary).
While suicide is not something that we like to talk about, it’s important to note that having conversations is a big part of prevention. Being educated and being aware can help save lives.
What can you do in your spaces to educate others on suicide prevention?
