Every year, since 2014, I have been involved in a dart tournament and silent auction that is focused on Suicide Awareness. We lost a family friend to suicide. While it is important for everyone to be aware of suicide, I also think it is important to know how everyone can help with the prevention of suicide.
No matter a person’s age, gender or background, suicide can affect anyone.
According to the CDC; Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the US. Back in 2019, there were more than 47,500 deaths and the suicide rates increased 33% from 1999 to 2019.
There are warning signs when it comes to suicide that can be helpful in the preventions of suicide. Increased use of alcohol and drug use is one sign. Aggressive behavior and Mood swings that are dramatic can also be a warning sign. If someone that usually spends a lot of time with family and friends starts to distant themselves, that is also a warning sign. While not each of these individual warning signs necessarily lead straight to suicide, as a whole, they could.
These warning signs can be difficult to notice and can be hidden very well (my family friend had the most contagious laugh and that never went away until he was no longer with us).
There are also risk factors that can put a person at a higher risk of suicide. Having a family history, a serious medical illness, history of trauma or abuse and a recent tragedy or loss, are just a few.
I think it is important to notice these warning signs and know how important they are. When it comes to mental health, such signs should not be “brushed to the side” but always taken seriously. It is also important to know that there are people to talk to and people that care.
If you know someone that has these risk factors and also is showing the warning signs, it is important to take them seriously.
If you or someone you know is in an emergency, call The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) or call 911 immediately.
More Information on Warning Signs: Risk of Suicide