Facts
Suicide is a very serious topic that it is important to be educated on. It is always important to remember that while this information can be troubling, there is always hope! According to 2005 data 32,637 deaths were completed suicides. This accounted for 1.3% of all deaths that year.
Males are more likely to complete suicide than females. This is often because males use more impulsive and permanent methods. Suicide is the third highest cause of death for ages 15-24. This data was obtained from the National Data for Vital Statistics in 2005.
It is important to know that there are many treatment options that can assist someone who is thinking of suicide. Seeking immediate help can greatly reduce the risk of suicide.
Common Experiences Associated with Suicidal Thoughts
Often, those who are thinking of suicide are feeling hopeless, helpless, purposeless, angry, depressed, anxious, trapped, extreme guilt, loneliness, mood changes, and a sense of recklessness. There are often thoughts of wanting to die which could lead to plans of how one might kill themselves.
Many describe noticeable behavior changes which could include recklessness, substance abuse, rage, isolation from others and activities that in the past that were once viewed as enjoyable.
Things You Can Do
If you are having thoughts of suicide, seek help immediately! There is always someone willing to help and/or talk. See below for treatment options or places you can turn to.
Treatment
The most important thing is the safety of the person who is thinking of suicide. If you, or someone you know, cannot keep themselves safe there are multiple options in the community including going to any hospital emergency room, calling 911, or going to Lasting Hope Recovery Center at 415 S. 25 th Avenue, Omaha NE, 68131
Another helpful resource is the Boys Town hotline which is 1.800.448.3000. You may also text the word "START" to 741-741 to text with a counselor.
Ultimately, it is best to get professional help as soon as possible! A professional can help you, or a friend, to determine the cause of their thoughts and feelings and assist in finding positive solutions! There is always hope!
Helping a Friend
Helping a friend who is thinking of suicide can be difficult but there are ways you can help. First, be a good listener! Show interest and do not judge their feelings, actions or thoughts. Try not to give advice focused on solutions to the problems they discuss.
Focus on being present physically and emotionally. Get help from family, police, or a health care professional if your friends states they are having serious thoughts of suicide. Make sure to stay with your friend who is actively thinking of suicide until help arrives. If the situation becomes dangerous and you feel unsafe, get to a safe place and call 911.
Do not make any promises that you will keep you from keeping them safe. For example, don't promise that you won't tell anyone what they tell you. You can simply say there are some things you can't keep secret. Be aware of any warning signs your friend might give. You can review those signs in the “common experiences associated with suicidal thoughts” section.
If you are afraid that your friend is thinking of suicide then ask! Asking a simple question, although uncomfortable, may help save their life. Be direct when asking the question. For example, “You sound really upset and I am very concerned about you. Are you thinking about killing yourself”? If they say “yes” then seek the help of a professional immediately.
Sign up for a Gatekeeper Training to build more skills and practice intervening and caring for others. As a friend or caregiver, you might seek your own counseling. It can be emotionally difficult to help someone who is thinking of suicide. Take care of yourself as well!