Every September, National Suicide Prevention Month serves as a powerful reminder to prioritize mental health and be vigilant in recognizing the signs of suicide risk in those around us. Suicide is a leading cause of death worldwide, claiming more than 700,000 lives each year according to the World Health Organization (WHO). In the U.S. alone, over 50,000 people died by suicide in 2023. It affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life, making it a public health crisis that requires attention, education, and action.

Understanding Risk Factors for Suicide

While suicide can happen to anyone, certain risk factors make some individuals more vulnerable. These risk factors are not causes, but they can elevate the likelihood of suicidal behavior. Some of the most common risk factors include:

**Mental Health: Depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia are strongly linked to suicide risk. Approximately 90% of people who die by suicide have a diagnosable mental health condition.

**Substance Abuse: Individuals struggling with alcohol or drug misuse are at higher risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Substance use can intensify feelings of hopelessness or impulsivity.

**Trauma and Abuse: Those who have experienced trauma, such as childhood abuse, sexual violence, or domestic violence, are more likely to think about suicide.

**Social Isolation: Loneliness and a lack of supportive relationships are significant risk factors, especially in older adults or those living alone.

**Chronic Pain or Illness: Persistent physical pain or debilitating health conditions can lead individuals to feel as though suicide is the only escape from suffering.

**Family History: A family history of suicide or mental illness can increase suicide risk, as can exposure to suicide within one’s social circle.

**Access to Lethal Means: Easy access to firearms, medications, or other lethal means greatly raises the risk of suicide, especially in moments of crisis.

Recognizing Warning Signs

Identifying the warning signs of suicide can save lives. It’s essential to be aware of changes in behavior, mood, and even language that could signal someone is in crisis. Here are some warning signs to watch for:

**Talking about death or suicide: Comments like “I wish I were dead,” “I can’t see a way out,” or “Everyone would be better off without me” should never be ignored.

**Withdrawing from others: If a person suddenly isolates themselves from friends, family, or social activities, this could be a red flag.

**Giving away possessions: When someone begins giving away valued belongings or making unusual arrangements (e.g., writing a will), it may indicate they’re preparing for suicide.

**Drastic mood swings: Extreme mood changes—from deep sadness to sudden calmness or euphoria—may signal that someone has decided to attempt suicide.

**Increased substance use: A rise in alcohol or drug consumption can be a way to cope with overwhelming pain or distress.

**Feelings of hopelessness: Expressing feelings of being trapped, burdensome, or seeing no future can indicate suicidal thoughts.

How to Support Someone at Risk

Supporting someone who may be suicidal requires compassion, patience, and understanding. If you suspect someone is struggling, here’s how you can help:

1. Ask Directly About Suicide: If you’re concerned, don’t be afraid to ask, “Are you thinking about suicide?” Contrary to popular belief, asking directly doesn’t increase the risk—it opens the door to a potentially life-saving conversation.

 

2. Listen Without Judgment: Give them space to talk and express their feelings. Don’t try to “fix” things immediately or offer quick solutions. Simply being present and showing that you care can make a significant difference.

 

3. Encourage Professional Help: Gently suggest they talk to a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor. If they’re resistant, offer to help them find resources or accompany them to their first appointment.

 

4. Remove Access to Lethal Means: If possible, reduce the person’s access to dangerous items like firearms, medications, or other means of self-harm, especially during moments of acute crisis.

 

5. Stay Connected: Regularly check in with the person. Isolation worsens suicidal thoughts, so staying in contact—whether through phone calls, visits, or messages—can provide much-needed support.

How Common Is Suicide?

Suicide affects millions of lives every year. According to the CDC, it’s the 12th leading cause of death in the United States. Suicide rates are highest among middle-aged white men, but it impacts all demographics. In 2023, suicide rates were the highest in US history. Some key statistics highlight how widespread the issue is:

– In 2023, 13.2 million Americans seriously thought about suicide. 3.8 million made a plan for suicide, 1.6 million attempted suicide, and more than 50,000 people died by suicide.

– Suicide is the second leading cause of death for people aged 10–34.

– Among veterans, the suicide rate is 1.5 times higher than the general population. More than 17 veterans take their lives by suicide every day.

Tragically, this increase reflects a growing trend that started before the pandemic and has only been exacerbated by the mental health challenges associated with COVID-19 and its aftermath. So far, in 2024, approximately 12.8 million adults reported having serious thoughts of suicide, representing about 5.04% of the adult population.

Several factors contribute to the rise in suicide rates, including lingering effects from the pandemic, economic instability, isolation, increased prices, homelessness, and trauma. Chronic stress, loss of social connections, and financial pressures have further strained mental health resources, contributing to a national mental health crisis that has overwhelmed the healthcare system. These trends have emphasized the need for crucial suicide prevention strategies like improved access to mental health care, promoting social connectedness, and strengthening economic support in vulnerable populations.

Final Thoughts

National Suicide Prevention Month reminds us of the importance of mental health and community support. By understanding the risk factors and warning signs of suicide, we can intervene when it matters most. If you or someone you know is struggling, contact Isaiah Counseling & Wellness for help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988) is available 24/7, offering confidential support to those in need. Isaiah Counseling & Wellness has skilled therapists ready to help anyone who is experiencing suicidal ideations, depression, or anxiety. Give us a call today at 704-910-2055. Let’s all take part in spreading awareness, compassion, and resources to prevent this tragic loss of life.

Learn more about Isaiah Counseling & Wellness.