November 03rd, 2023

Suicide Awareness and Prevention

​Understanding Suicide:
Suicide is a complex and multifaceted issue that has significant prevalence and impact on societies worldwide. It is a deeply concerning public health problem that affects individuals, families, and communities. Here's an overview of the prevalence and impact of suicide in our society:
 
Prevalence:
 
Global Statistics: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), suicide is a leading cause of death worldwide. In 2019, there were an estimated 703,000 suicides globally, with a global age-standardized suicide rate of 9.0 per 100,000 population.
 
National Variations: Suicide rates vary by country, region, and demographic factors. Some countries have higher rates than others due to cultural, economic, and social factors. For instance, countries with high-income inequality, limited access to mental health care, or high levels of stigma around mental health tend to have higher suicide rates.
 
Demographics: Certain demographic groups are at higher risk, including middle-aged and older adults, males (who are more likely to die by suicide), and LGBTQ+ individuals who face unique challenges related to discrimination and social isolation.
 
Impact:
Suicide has a devastating impact on individuals who take their own lives, as well as on their families and close friends. Survivors of suicide attempts may face physical and emotional trauma, and families often experience profound grief and guilt.

​Mental Health Stigma: 
 
The stigma surrounding mental health and suicide can prevent individuals from seeking help. Stigmatization can lead to delayed or inadequate treatment, exacerbating the problem. Addressing the impact of suicide requires improved access to mental health care services, crisis helplines, and support networks. Early intervention and treatment for mental health disorders can help reduce suicide risk.
 
Suicide is a significant public health concern with far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, and society. Addressing the prevalence and impact of suicide requires a multifaceted approach, including improved mental health care, reduced stigma, increased awareness, and targeted prevention efforts. It's a challenge that necessitates collaboration at all levels of society to save lives and reduce suffering.

Recognizing Warning Signs:
Talking about:

• Wanting to die
• Great guilt or shame
• Being a burden to others

Feeling:

• Empty, hopeless, trapped, or having no reason to live.
• Extremely sad, more anxious, agitated, or full of rage
• Unbearable emotional or physical pain

Changing behavior, such as:

• Planning or researching ways to die
• Withdrawing from friends, saying goodbye, giving away important items, or making a will
• Taking dangerous risks such as driving extremely fast
• Displaying extreme mood swings
• Eating or sleeping more or less
• Using drugs or alcohol more often

Learn to identify warning signs in yourself and others.

Building a Supportive Community:
 
Mental Health First Aid: Sign up for a Mental Health First Aid training course.
Support Groups: Find local or online support groups for individuals and families affected by suicide.

Promoting Mental Wellness:
Here are some ways to promote mental wellness:

• Optimize nutrition and begin using food as medicine.
• Prioritize sleep - ideally before 10pm, for 8 hours.
• Find movement you enjoy.
• Build your community of people who support and inspire you.
• Step outside in nature often.
• Consider a neuropsychological evaluation.

A neuropsychological evaluation identifies signs of disorders affecting your brain, spinal cord and nervous system. It includes a series of physical examination steps that assess nervous system functioning. Neuropsychological evaluations are designed to measure intelligence, attention, memory, language, executive function (working memory, flexible thinking, attention, emotion regulation, and self-control) the ability to process auditory and visual information, processing speed, and visuospatial ability (capacity to identify visual and spatial relationships among objects). It assists in the diagnosis of ADHD, depression, dementia, Alzheimer’s, autism, and learning disabilities. It is also an indispensable tool that can evaluate people with Parkinson’s disease, stroke, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury and epilepsy, dementia, and mild cognitive impairment. Certain disorders can have similar symptoms. A wrong diagnosis comes with the wrong medication for a patient’s needs. This inevitably leads to an ineffective treatment that will cause frustration and loss of hope.
 
Get a better understanding of the types of neuropsychological tests available for your needs and how to prepare for such an assessment. We have clinical neuropsychologists in house to conduct evaluations. You can call 703-573-3573 or complete this appointment request form to schedule your appointment.

​Resources and Hotlines:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255)
Crisis Text Line: Text "HELLO" to 741741
 
Community Events:
Join the following upcoming events throughout the month, including webinars and workshops.
 
Mental Health Awareness for Seniors Event
Mental & Emotional Support Group for Youth
A Parent’s Guide to Unlocking Your Child’s Mental Wellness
 
We encourage you participate and spread the word so others can too.
 
Personal Stories:
Read personal stories of hope and resilience from individuals who have overcome suicidal thoughts and experiences here.
 
How You Can Help:

• Engage in open conversations about mental health.
• Donate to organizations dedicated to suicide prevention.
• Share this newsletter with friends, family, and colleagues.

 
Get Involved:

• Volunteer for local mental health organizations.
• Participate in fundraising efforts.
• Advocate for mental health policies in your community.

 
Remember, suicide prevention is a year-round effort. Let's work together to create a more compassionate and understanding community where everyone feels supported in their mental health journey.