Thirteen Years
All suicides
- Number of deaths: 48,344
- Deaths per 100,000 population: 14.8
- Cause of death rank: 10
Source: National Vital Statistics System – Mortality Data (2018) via CDC WONDER
Firearm suicides
- Number of deaths: 24,432
- Deaths per 100,000 population: 7.5
Source: National Vital Statistics System – Mortality Data (2018) via CDC WONDER
Suffocation suicides
- Number of deaths: 13,840
- Deaths per 100,000 population: 4.2
Source: National Vital Statistics System – Mortality Data (2018) via CDC WONDER
Poisoning suicides
- Number of deaths: 6,237
- Deaths per 100,000 population: 1.9
Source: National Vital Statistics System – Mortality Data (2018) via CDC WONDER
Thirteen years ago this week, my cousin committed Suicide. Forty-two years old, loads of friends, successful business. So why did he take his own life? We don't know.
Last week, a twenty-two-year-old young man from an adjacent county committed Suicide. Well-liked, talented college baseball and basketball player, his life ahead of him. So why did he take his own life? We don't know.
The above statistics demonstrate the problem of Suicide in the United States.
Suicide can be prevented. From the Centers for Disease Control(CDC)
What to Watch For
Individual, relationship, community, and societal factors may influence the Risk of Suicide. Know the suicide warning signs, including:
- Feeling like a burden
- Being isolated
- Increased anxiety
- Feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
- Increased substance use
- Looking for a way to access lethal means
- Increased anger or rage
- Extreme mood swings
- Expressing hopelessness
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Talking or posting about wanting to die
- Making plans for Suicide
How to Get Help
Safeguard the people in your life from the risk of Suicide and support them:
- Ask. Asking someone if they are thinking about Suicide will not increase the chance of their Suicide.
- Keep them safe.
- Be there.
- Help them connect. You can start with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255).
- Follow up.
Everyone can play a part in preventing Suicide!
Learn what CDC is doing for Suicide Prevention.
Suicide Prevention Resource Center
Help Prevent Suicide/SAMHSA
National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention
10 Things Parents Can Do to Prevent Suicide
Suicide Prevention - American Psychiatric Association
The last two years has even added to the struggles of individuals young and old. The isolation and social struggles has only increased the rate of suicide. Our children, with limited interaction the stress and worry of the unknown. Having to hide behind our masks. We need to be more diligent than ever to watch out for those we love. Reaching out for the added care that is needed.
We can assist you and your family to navigate our health and well being. We are here to help.
