Suicide

Have you or a loved one been affected by suicide? Have you ever wondered how you would know if your son or daughter was struggling with suicidal thoughts? The topic of suicide is not something that people want to talk about. It is a hard subject to address with not only our youth but also with our elderly.

Did you know among adults’ ages 15 to 24 years old, there are approximately 100-200 attempts for every completed suicide, according to Goldsmith, Pellmar and Kleinman, authors of Reducing suicide: a national imperative.

Additionally, according to the Center for disease control (CDC), not only is suicide among males is four times higher than among females and represent 79% of all U.S. suicides, but it was the tenth leading cause of death for all ages in 2010.

In addition, there were 38,364 suicides in the United States in 2010. This equals approximately 105 each day.

What can you do?

Education is the first step. Know the warning signs of suicide!

A person at risk for suicidal behavior most often will show signs of:

  • Threatening to hurt or kill him or herself, or talking of wanting to hurt or kill him/herself
  • Looking for ways to kill him/herself by seeking access to firearms, available pills, or other means
  • Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide, when these actions are out of the ordinary.

Additional Warning Signs:

  • Increased substance (alcohol or drug) use
  • Feeling as though there is no reason for living or sense of purpose in life
  • Having anxiety, agitation, unable to sleep or sleeping all the time
  • Feeling as though they are trapped - like there’s no way out
  • Hopelessness
  • Withdrawing from friends, family and society
  • Rage, uncontrolled anger
  • Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities, seemingly without thinking
  • Dramatic mood changes

These warning signs were compiled by a task force of expert clinical-researchers and ‘translated’ for the general public. The origin of IS PATH WARM?

IS PATH WARM?

I Ideation
S Substance Abuse
   
P Purposelessness
A Anxiety
T Trapped
H Hopelessness
   
W Withdrawal
A Anger
R Recklessness
M Mood Changes

If you or a loved one is struggling with suicidal thoughts contact a professional as soon as possible or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for a referral.

Remember you are not alone