September 10th is World Suicide Prevention Day. The theme this year is “connect, communicate, care”. Suicide is a complicated tragedy that impacts families and communities, but the goal of World Suicide Prevention Day is simple. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) goal is to reduce factors that increase suicide risk, increase factors that promote resiliency, and educate the public on suicide prevention awareness.
HPA/LiveWell is proud to be joining with others on September 10th to share the common goal of preventing suicide. To learn more about the treatment programs offered at HPA/LiveWell in the greater Albany, NY area please click here.
Suicide Facts
Data published by the World Health Organization states that over 800,000 people die from suicide each year. Clearly put by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) that is one person every 40 seconds. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among 15 to 34-year-olds and the 10th leading cause of death in the US overall according to the CDC. It is also estimated by IASP that up to 25 times as many people make a suicide attempt. Suicide survivors may have long-term physical injuries and mental health concerns that need to be addressed.
Suicide Prevention Awareness
While the suicide statistics are alarming, it should be noted that suicide is preventable. The main strategy in terms of suicide prevention is to understand suicide warning signs. While there is no single cause of suicide, the CDC lists several risk factors for suicide which include:
- Previous suicide attempt
- History of depression or other mental illness
- Alcohol or drug abuse
- Family history of suicide or violence
- Physical illness
- Feeling alone
Some groups are at higher risk that others. Men are four times more likely than women to die from suicide. Other groups at an increased risk according to the Department of Veteran Affairs are active or retired military personnel.
Some people may not display any suicide warning signs before harming themselves, while others may. People that exhibit signs of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and hopelessness may benefit from a suicide assessment. A case manager at HPA/LiveWell in the greater Albany, NY area can assist. Please call us at 518-218-1188.
If you feel that you are currently suicidal, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
