Suicide Prevention

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Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the US, with more than 14 deaths for every 100,000 people. In 2022, suicide rates increased 3% compared to 2021, per US death certificate findings. September is Suicide Awareness Month. Resources are available to help, I want to share information from 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline today.

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is is a national network of over 200 local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the United States. All calls are free and confidential. These local crisis centers, combine custom local care and resources with national standards and best practices.

988lifeline.org

What Happens When You Call The 988 Lifeline?

  • First, you’ll hear an automated message with options before your call is routed to your local 988 Lifeline network crisis center
  • A skilled, trained crisis worker will answer at your local center
  • This crisis worker will listen to you, provide support, and get the help you need

Sobering Statistics

  • For every one person who dies by suicide annually, 316 people seriously consider suicide
  • The 900 National Lifeline has received over 20 Million calls from people in distress, looking for support since opening in 2005
  • There are separate Lifeline Options for those who speak Spanish, for Deaf and Hard of Hearing, for Veterans, and a DDH Videophone for ASL Users

Know the Risk Factors

  • Mental disorders, particularly mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and certain personality disorders
  • Alcohol and other substance use disorders
  • Hopelessness
  • Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies
  • History of trauma or abuse
  • Major physical illnesses
  • Previous suicide attempt(s)
  • Family history of suicide
  • Job or financial loss
  • Loss of relationship(s)
  • Easy access to lethal means
  • Local clusters of suicide
  • Lack of social support and sense of isolation
  • Stigma associated with asking for help
  • Lack of healthcare, especially mental health and substance abuse treatment
  • Cultural and religious beliefs, such as the belief that suicide is a noble resolution of a personal dilemma
  • Exposure to others who have died by suicide (in real life or via the media and Internet)

Warning Signs

  • Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves
  • Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online or buying a gun
  • Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
  • Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
  • Talking about being a burden to others
  • Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
  • Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
  • Sleeping too little or too much
  • Withdrawing or isolating themselves
  • Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
  • Extreme mood swings

#BeThe1

The Be The One hashtag was developed to help save lives, though awareness. They have a dedicated website where you can see the five steps and learn more HERE

  • Research shows people having thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone asks after them in a caring way
  • When lethal means are made less available, you are helping to keep people safer
  • Individuals feel less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful after speaking to someone who listens without judgment
  • Sharing resources for support and safety can help people take positive action and reduce feelings of hopelessness
  • Brief and supportive follow-up after care services can be an important part of prevention

Awareness

Sudden loss is devastating. In this crazy world we live in, let’s look after each other. Help where and when you’re able is my motto. Join me and lets create a ripple 🌞

I’m constantly seeking to find ways to help people get started, review what they have, and update what’s needed. So, I’ve designed a program that has twelve modules and monthly Live Q&A sessions. If you know of anyone this program may help, send them over to the opt-in page to check it out: https://courses.thelivingplanner.com/f/put-your-mind-at-ease-1

If you have thoughts/questions, send me an Email: Lynn@thelivingplanner.com. As Aristotle said, “Hope is a waking dream” To Hope ❣️Lynn

LifeHacks #CareForPeopleCareForBusiness

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