Suicide - Finding Hope in the Darkness - Ep 309

Latest Suicide Statistics:
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), suicide remains a significant public health issue in the United States.   
In 2022, there were over 49,000 suicide deaths in the U.S.   
It is also important to note that suicide is a leading cause of death for young people.

Gender Disparities:
Significantly Higher Rates in Males:

Age Trends:
Males:
For males, the highest suicide rates are typically seen in older age groups, particularly those aged 75 and older.
There has been an increase in male suicide rates for those in the 25-44, and 65 and older age groups.
Females:
For females, the highest suicide rates are often observed in middle age, particularly those aged 45-64.
From 2020 to 2022, there has been an increase in female suicide rates for those 25 and older.
Youth:
It is important to note that even though the rates are lower, the percentage increase of suicide in the 10-14 year old female demographic, has been the largest percentage increase out of all female demographics, from 2001 to 2021.

Common Reasons Why People Attempt or Commit Suicide
1. Overwhelming Emotional Pain and Hopelessness:
Escape from Unbearable Suffering:

2. Mental Health Conditions:
Depression:
Major depressive disorder is strongly linked to suicide. 

Other Mental Disorders:
Conditions like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders also increase suicide risk.
Substance Abuse:
Drug and alcohol use can impair judgment, increase impulsivity, and exacerbate underlying mental health problems, contributing to suicide attempts.
3. Stressful Life Circumstances:
Interpersonal Problems:
Financial Difficulties:
Job loss, debt, and financial instability can create overwhelming stress.
Trauma and Abuse:
Experiences of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse can have lasting psychological effects and increase suicide risk.
Social Isolation:
Loneliness, and a lack of feeling connected to other people, can be a large contributing factor.
4. Impulsivity:

Advice - 
Identifying the Signs:
Recognizing the warning signs of suicidal thoughts is crucial. These signs may include:
Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves.
Looking for ways to kill themselves, such as 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.   
Withdrawing from friends, family, and activities.
Sleeping too much or too little.
Giving away prized possessions.
Displaying extreme mood swings.

Here are some best practices:
Be Present and Listen: 
Show God's Love: 
Encourage Professional Help: 
Pray: 
Share Hope: 
Connect them to Church Community: 
Remember that God is in control: Even in the darkest times, God is still in control. 

Key Resources:
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): nami.org
Your local emergency room. 
https://rocksolidfamilies.org

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