INDIANA – September is recognized as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising public understanding and providing resources to help those who may be struggling.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), a person dies by suicide in the U.S. every 11 minutes. While more women attempt suicide, men are four times more likely to die by suicide. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for individuals ages 10 to 24 and the 11th leading cause of death overall in the U.S..
Suicide in Indiana
Recent data from the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) reveals a troubling trend in the state. Between 2022 and 2023, Indiana’s suicide rate increased by 3.7%, rising from 16.3 to 16.9 per 100,000 residents. In 2023 alone, there were 1,184 suicide deaths among Hoosiers. The data also shows a disparity between rural and urban areas, with rural counties having a higher suicide rate of 19.4 per 100,000 compared to 16.1 in metropolitan counties. A majority of suicide deaths in 2023, 63.8%, were due to firearms.
Talking About Suicide
One of the most critical steps in prevention is talking about it. A 2014 study found that acknowledging and discussing suicide can actually reduce suicidal thoughts and may encourage individuals to seek professional help. Open conversations can give a person a safe space to share their feelings without judgment, whereas not asking could increase feelings of despair and a higher risk of suicide.
Recognizing the Warning Signs
The warning signs of suicide may not always be obvious, but becoming aware of the FACTS can be a helpful first step to identify someone in need.
- F – Feelings: Expressing hopelessness about the future.
- A – Actions: Displaying severe or overwhelming pain or distress.
- C – Changes: Showing worrisome behavioral cues or changes, such as withdrawing from friends or activities, changes in sleep patterns, or increased anger.
- T – Threats: Talking, writing, or making plans for suicide.
- S – Situations: Experiencing stressful situations like loss, change, personal humiliation, or getting into trouble.
Reducing Access to Lethal Means
Reducing access to lethal means in the home is a critical part of suicide prevention.
- Firearms: If a friend or loved one is at risk, consider asking a trusted person to temporarily hold their firearm or store it securely, locked separately from the ammunition.
- Medications: Dispose of any unneeded lethal doses of medications and consider locking up both prescription and over-the-counter drugs.
Having the Conversation
When you suspect someone is considering suicide, it’s important to be direct and empathetic. Start the conversation privately, letting them know it’s okay to struggle, and normalize talking about mental health.
If someone tells you they are thinking about suicide, do not leave them alone. Call 911 or take them to the nearest emergency room. You should also contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for additional support and immediately tell a family member or trusted person.
Available Resources
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: This free resource connects individuals with skilled counselors for support 24/7. You can call, text, or chat with them in a confidential and non-judgmental way.
- QPR Training: QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) is a training that teaches individuals how to recognize the warning signs of suicide and effectively refer someone at risk to professional help.
- FindTreatment.gov: This comprehensive website helps individuals find treatment services for mental health and substance use disorders.
