Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/565799
Talking about suicide is never easy, but raising awareness about suicide and suicide prevention saves lives. In 2013, one American committed suicide every 12.8 minutes, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. This statistic paints a grim picture, but it's important to remember that suicide can be prevented with early intervention and access to mental health care, counseling, and support. IDENTIFYING THOSE AT RISK Many factors contribute to a person's suicide risk, but those who have attempted or committed suicide often share one of the following characteristics: Mental illness—At least 90 percent of people who commit suicide have a mental illness—most commonly, depression—at the time of their death, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, so familiarize yourself with depression symptoms (see "Recognizing the Signs of Depression"). Depression is often confused with sadness, which is a normal, temporary response to loss or life changes. People who are depressed have experienced symptoms for at least two weeks, may perceive events and the world around them negatively, and often have low self- esteem. Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and anxiety, eating, and personality disorders also contribute to suicide risk. A personal or family history of suicide—People with friends or family members who commit suicide may view suicide as a way out or believe it is a viable solution for their emotional pain or problems. Suicide may also have a genetic component. Individuals who have attempted suicide in the past are also more likely to try again. Substance abuse—Drug and alcohol abuse are linked to depression, nancial diculties, relationship problems, andsuicide. Other factors that might increase suicide risk include prolonged abuse, harassment and bullying, isolation from loved ones, a diagnosis of a chronic or terminal illness, and stress due to debt, unemployment, divorce, or a recent death in thefamily. Suicide Awareness Shining a Light on CATHOLIC HEALTH INITIATIVES /// www.mercyhospitalvalleycity.org 2