10 Ways to Combat the Rising Tide of Suicide Among Youths and Adults

Suicide is a global public health crisis, affecting people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. It is the fourth leading cause of death among adolescents and young adults in the United States, and the tenth leading cause of death overall. The World Health Organization estimates that over 700,000 people die by suicide each year, with many more attempting to take their own lives.

The causes of suicide are complex and multifaceted, but they often include mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, substance abuse, and relationship problems. Certain risk factors can make individuals more vulnerable to suicidal thoughts and behaviors, such as a history of trauma or abuse, social isolation, and lack of access to mental health care.

10 Ways to Stop Suicide Among Youths and Adults: A short guide on common suicide warning signs

by Douglas Gill

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	690 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	15 pages
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Preventing suicide is a top priority for public health officials and mental health professionals. There are a number of evidence-based strategies that can be used to reduce the risk of suicide, including:

1. Early identification and treatment of mental health conditions. Mental health conditions are major risk factors for suicide, so it is important to identify and treat these conditions early on. Screening for mental health problems should be a routine part of primary care, and individuals who are experiencing symptoms of mental illness should be referred to appropriate treatment services.
2. Reducing access to lethal means. One of the most effective ways to prevent suicide is to reduce access to lethal means, such as firearms and certain medications. This can be done through a variety of measures, such as safe storage practices, gun control laws, and medication safety programs.
3. Providing support for people in crisis. People who are in crisis are at high risk for suicide, so it is important to provide them with immediate support. This can be done through crisis hotlines, mobile crisis teams, and other community-based services.
4. Educating the public about suicide. Many people do not know the warning signs of suicide or how to help someone who is suicidal. Public education campaigns can help to increase awareness of suicide and reduce stigma associated with seeking help.
5. Promoting protective factors. Protective factors are factors that can help to reduce the risk of suicide, such as strong social support, positive coping skills, and a sense of purpose. Promoting protective factors can help to build resilience and reduce the likelihood of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
6. Restoring hope. Suicide is often a result of hopelessness, so it is important to restore hope for people who are struggling. This can be done through counseling, support groups, and other interventions that help people to develop a more positive outlook on life.
7. Addressing social determinants of health. Social determinants of health, such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to education and healthcare, can increase the risk of suicide. Addressing these social determinants can help to create a more equitable and just society, which can in turn reduce the risk of suicide.
8. Encouraging help-seeking behavior. Many people who are suicidal do not seek help because they are afraid of being judged or stigmatized. Encouraging help-seeking behavior can help to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness and make it more likely that people who are struggling will seek the help they need.
9. Providing comprehensive aftercare. After a suicide attempt, it is important to provide comprehensive aftercare to help people recover and prevent future attempts. Aftercare services may include counseling, medication, and support groups.
10. Supporting survivors of suicide. The survivors of suicide are often left with feelings of grief, guilt, and anger. Providing support to survivors can help them to cope with their loss and rebuild their lives.

Suicide is a preventable tragedy. By working together, we can create a world where everyone has the opportunity to live a full and healthy life.

Additional Resources

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
• Crisis Text Line
• Suicide Prevention Resource Center
• National Alliance on Mental Illness

10 Ways to Stop Suicide Among Youths and Adults: A short guide on common suicide warning signs

by Douglas Gill

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	690 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	15 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE