This should be a topic we discuss as families, friends and not hidden. You never know who is experiencing these feelings, and not speaking of it in turn makes it hard for those suffering to get these emotions out in the open.
Statistics of suicide in the U.S. is such a sad group of numbers. With today’s television programing, suicide is not a hidden topic. But it seems to be taboo to speak of this tragic event among our society.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) shares a variety of topics on their website but not everyone knows when, how and where to access this useful information. Below you can find just a small portion of knowledge that comes with this issue.
On average there are 117 suicides that happen per day in the US. More often this happens among white males that are middle aged. A study from past years shows that 7 out of 10 suicides where from that category. However, it has been recorded that females attempt suicide three times more often than males.
Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in America. It is the leading cause of death between the ages of 10-24. In 2014, 19.3% of suicides that occurred were by people over the age of 85 years old.
As a total, over 42,000 American’s die from committing suicide each year. In Kentucky alone it is estimated that 727 people have passed due to suicide in the past year.
For every suicide that occurs approximately 25 more people attempt to end their own lives.
While there is no single cause depression, anxiety and substance abuse are typically the cause of this.
Some warning signs and behavior
A friend or loved one may begin talking about feeling trapped with no reason to live. They may start showing signs of aggression, visiting or calling saying goodbye, or they may start giving away prized possessions, sleeping too much, withdrawing and showing a loss of interest from things they once enjoyed.
They may have a family history of suicide attempts or be exposed to prolonged stress factors which may include harassment, bullying, relationship problems, and unemployment
If you have considered suicide or have had suicidal thoughts know you are not alone…you are loved. There are others who have or are experiencing the same thing you are going through. Build yourself a support network, talk to someone. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help and seek counseling. Reevaluate the relationships in your life. Find an activity that brings you joy.
Those of us who know someone that are experiencing these thoughts be an ally to this person. Ask questions and genuinely listen. You may think that nothing is worth ending your life over, but to another it may feel like the only option. Give them a hug and smile. Most importantly get them the help they need and take care of yourself.
Please know you are loved, you are so important, you are the reason someone lives, you are not alone.
Until next time Life, taxes and…
Josh
National suicide prevention lifeline; a 24/7 hotline that is anonymous that has people to just talk to when you feel like there is no one you can talk to.
1-800-273-8255
https://afsp.org/
