A few facts about suicide...
- Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States.
- Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among persons between the ages of 15 and 34.
- For every woman who dies by suicide, more than three men die by suicide.
- 90% of those who die by suicide had a diagnosable psychiatric disorder at the time of their death.
- It's estimated that for every death by suicide, there are 25 attempts.
- Since 1999, suicide rates have increased by more than 30% according to the U.S. Center for Disease Control.
What you need to know...
WARNING SIGNS OF SUICIDE
The more of these signs a person shows, the greater the risk. Warning signs are associated with suicide, but may not be what causes a suicide.
- Talking about wanting to die
- Looking for a way to kill oneself
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no purpose
- Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
- Talking about being a burden to others
- Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
- Acting anxious, agitated or recklessly
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Withdrawing or feeling isolated
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
- Displaying extreme mood swings
The more of these signs a person shows, the greater the risk. Warning signs are associated with suicide, but may not be what causes a suicide.
How to help a friend or loved one...
WHAT TO DO
If someone you know exhibits warning signs of suicide:
LOCAL CRISIS HOTLINE
WEBSITES TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MENTAL ILLNESS & SUICIDE
If someone you know exhibits warning signs of suicide:
- Do not leave the person alone
- Remove any firearms, alcohol, drugs or sharp objects that could be used in a suicide attempt
- Call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255)
- Take the person to an emergency room or seek help from a medical or mental health professional
LOCAL CRISIS HOTLINE
- In Defiance, Fulton, Henry and Williams counties call 800-468-4357
WEBSITES TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MENTAL ILLNESS & SUICIDE
- https://afsp.org/ The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
- http://4countysuicideprevention.org/ In Defiance, Fulton, Henry and Williams counties the Four County Suicide Prevention Coalition. Lists local resources.