September is Suicide Prevention Month. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 45,000 people die by suicide in the United States each year. This number continues to grow, however suicide is preventable. It is important to have open, honest communication to face suicide head on. Suicide is a very complex issue. This article touches on only a few important points but if you or someone you know is suicidal, please get help immediately. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number is 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
Know the Signs
Talking about suicide or preoccupation with death- Any statements about suicide or death should be addressed. Even if a person has a habit of saying things like, “ I want to die”, asking seriously about their thoughts, feelings, and reasons for this statement is important to identifying whether they may be seriously considering suicide.
Thoughts of hopelessness about the future- Having the belief that nothing will get better or that things will never change can be a sign of a person is considering suicide.
Saying goodbye or giving possessions away- Some people will attempt to get their affairs in order prior to an attempt by giving away personal affects or saying goodbye to people.
Elevated mood- While we usually think about a person being depressed if they are considering suicide, it common for a person to seem happy and at peace prior to an attempt. This can be a very critical time because the person considering suicide has made the decision and possibly the plan to commit by this point.
Watch social media- Especially with younger people, they may post messages to social media if considering suicide. These messages will likely be more subtle and not outright statements about suicide.
Acts differently- Unfortunately there is not a set signs or symptoms for a suicidal person. Each person and situation is different. So any behaviors that lead you to be concerned should be addressed.
If you suspect a person is considering suicide say something immediately. There is a common myth that talking to a person about suicide will give them the idea to commit. If the person is actually suicidal, suicide is something that they have thought or even obsessed about. By speaking up and providing support, you may help the person see there is a way out other than suicide.
If you suspect someone may be suicidal, act now, don’t wait. Reaching out to that person or getting professional help is critical to helping that person.
Even after the suicidal crisis has passed, stay supportive and continue to reach out.
Suicide can be a tragic result of many issues. It’s important that if you are concerned about a person who may be considering suicide that you do something immediately. Below are local county helplines that can be contacted 24/7 to address concerns you may have and help guide you to get help for the suicidal person.
National Hotline- 800-273-TALK
Detroit Wayne County Mental Health Authority- 800-241-4949
Macomb County Community Mental Health- 800-273-TALK or 586-307-9100
Oakland County- Common Ground- 800-231-1127
St Clair County Community Mental Health - 888-225-4447
Amanda Be, LMSW, MBA is owner and counselor at Supportive Counseling Services in Grosse Pointe, MI. Amanda has been a practicing clinical social worker since 2005. She is passionate about helping others lead happier, more successful lives through her private practice, advocacy and volunteer work. Amanda’s main objective is to support others during life’s challenges and hopes these blogs will help. She writes and speaks on topics for parents, counselors and educators.