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Suicide Prevention and Risk Factors

Suicide Prevention and Risk Factors

Statistics about suicide from the Washington State Department of Health

  • Suicide is the second leading cause of death in Washington State for youth 10-24 years old and the third leading cause of death nationwide.
  • There were nearly twice as many suicides as homicides of youth ages 10-24
  • In Washington State and nationally, females attempted suicide more frequently, and males died by suicide more often, by a ratio of at least 4:1
  • In Washington State, firearms were the leading method of suicide for both males and females.

Suicide Risk Factors

  • Mental illness including depression, concussion disorders, and substance abuse
  • Family Stress/dysfunction
  • Environmental risks
  • Situational crises (death of a loved one, abuse, breakup, violence, etc)

Suicide Warning Signs

  • Unable to focus or think clearly
  • Withdrawal from friends and family
  • Changes in appearance and personality
  • Feelings of depression, loneliness, or isolation
  • Talking about being a burden to others
  • Wanting to escape a painful or difficult situation
  • Suicidal threats in the form of direct and indirect statements
  • Increased use of drugs and/or alcohol
  • Suicide notes and plans
  • Making final arrangements (writing a will, giving away prized possessions)
  • Preoccupation with death
  • Can't see a way out (hopelessness)

What to do

  • Remain calm
  • Ask a youth directly if he or she is thinking about suicide.
  • Focus on your concern for their wellbeing and avoid being accusatory
  • Listen without judgement
  • Reassure them that there is help and they will not  feel like this forever.
  • Provide constant suprvision.  Do not leave the youth alone.
  • Remove means of self-harm
  • Get help! (Seek help from school or community mental health resources as soon as possible

Resiliency 

  • Family support and cohesion, including good communication
  • Peer support and close social networks
  • School and community connectedness
  • Cultural or religious beliefs
  • Adaptive coping and problem-solving skills, including conflict resolution
  • General life satisfaction, good self-esteem, sense of purpose
  • Easy access to effective medical and mental health resources

Resources

  • 24/7 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 988
  • Child Protective Services (CPS) 1-800 ENDHARM   24 hour Hotline
  • Crime Victim Crisis Line  509-751-6596
  • Childhelp (800-4achild)  Provides 24/7 assistance in 170 languages to adults, children and youth with information and questions regarding child abuse.  All calls are anonymous and confidential.
  • National Runaway Safeline 1 800 RUNAWAY - Crisis line for youth thinking about running away, for youth already on the run and for adults worried about a runaway.  24/7 help available
  • HIV/Aids Hotline 1-800-HIV 0440
  • Trevor Project Lifeline 91 866 331 9474 Provides 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth

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