Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States with about 112 people taking their own lives every day, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
To help spread awareness and to potentially help those in need, the American Association of Suicidology has designated September 5-11th as National Suicide Prevention Week.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, concerned people can look for a set of warning signs that often precede self harm:
– Talk of suicide.
– Feeling trapped, guilty or in pain.
– Increased use of drugs or alcohol.
– Agitation.
– Changes in eating habits.
– Withdrawal from family and friends.
Some have a higher risk of suicide, either because of life circumstances or because of intrinsic mental health issues. Psychiatry.org explains that mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder, a recent loss of a friend or family member, a history of abuse, and chronic physical pain can all contribute to a suicidal mentality.
If you know or suspect a person is at risk of suicide, there is help available by calling the National Suicide Prevention Hotline which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
