Suicide Awareness and Prevention
Suicide is a growing public health concern, touching lives at home, in the workplace, and in our communities. More than 1 million Americans attempted suicide in 2019 and 47,500 died by suicide. That averages 1 death every 11 minutes. As tragic and complex as suicide is, it’s important to know that it’s often preventable. The more we know about this leading cause of death, the more we can help someone who may be at risk, especially as Americans navigate the COVID-19 pandemic and the anxiety, fears and disruption that come with it. The Mindful by Blue KC Suicide Awareness and Prevention webpage is an excellent resource to help educate yourself on this crucial subject.
Most people who take their own lives exhibit one or more warning signs, either through what they say or what they do. Familiarize yourself with the following suicide warning signs. Your knowledge and attention could save a life. If you or someone you know is feeling suicidal, seek immediate help.
As a Blue KC member, you have access to a Mindful Advocate who is available for behavioral health help 24/7. All you have to do is reach out. Call 833-302-MIND (6463) for a referral to our expedited access network, which is designed to provide quick access to a behavioral health clinician for those in crisis.
Additionally, The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached at 1-800-273-8255. A lifeline in every sense of the word, this national network of local crisis centers provides 24/7 free and confidential support if you’re in a suicidal crisis or emotional distress.
Suicide Warning Signs
Warning sign: Talk
If a person talks about:
- Killing themselves
- Feeling hopeless
- Having no reason to live
- Being a burden to others
- Feeling trapped
- Unbearable pain
Warning sign: Behavior
Behaviors that may signal risk, especially if related to a painful event, loss, or change:
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs
- Looking for a way to end their life, such as searching online for methods
- Withdrawing from activities
- Isolating from family and friends
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Visiting or calling people to say goodbye
- Giving away prized possessions
- Aggression
- Fatigue
Warning sign: Mood
People who are considering suicide often display one or more of the following moods:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Loss of interest
- Irritability
- Humiliation/Shame
- Agitation/Anger
- Relief/Sudden Improvement
Additional Resources and Education:
- The Mindful by Blue KC Suicide Awareness and Prevention webpage includes a suicide awareness quiz and information on who to call for help.
- Suicide Facts and Figures gives insight and statistics behind this tragic cause of death.
- Myths about Suicide addresses common misconceptions about suicide.
- The Trevor Project provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people under 25.
- The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24/7.