Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S. It is responsible for over 800,000 deaths, which equates to one suicide every 40 seconds.
That's why the International Association of Suicide Prevention (IASP) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recognize September 10 as World Suicide Prevention Day.
It's a day dedicated to raising awareness of the risks of suicide and the challenges faced when trying to prevent death by suicide.
According to the Colorado Health Institute 1,175 people in Colorado died by suicide in 2017, the highest number in state's history. Suicide is most common in the 45-64 year-old age ground, and men are three times as likely as women to die by suicide.
If you are in crisis, call the Colorado Crisis & Support Line at 1-844-493-TALK (8255) to connect with a trained counselor in your area.
Or reach the toll-free National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The service is available to anyone. All calls are confidential.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones. If you would like to reach out, the number is 1-800-273-8255.
Know the warning signs:
- Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves
- Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online or buying a gun
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
- Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
- Talking about being a burden to others
- Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
- Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Withdrawing or isolating themselves
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
- Extreme mood swings
Know the risk factors:
- Mental disorders, particularly mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and certain personality disorders
- Alcohol and other substance use disorders
- Hopelessness
- Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies
- History of trauma or abuse
- Major physical illnesses
- Previous suicide attempt(s)
- Family history of suicide
- Job or financial loss
- Loss of relationship(s)
- Easy access to lethal means
- Local clusters of suicide
- Lack of social support and sense of isolation
- Stigma associated with asking for help
- Lack of healthcare, especially mental health and substance abuse treatment
- Cultural and religious beliefs, such as the belief that suicide is a noble resolution of a personal dilemma
- Exposure to others who have died by suicide (in real life or via the media and Internet)
To show support of suicide prevention, remember a lost loved one or honor suicide survivors, you can light a candle near a window at 8 p.m. on September 10.
International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP)
Related:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Report shows more millennials dying from drugs, drinking, and suicide
Colorado Health Institute
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
