Suicide Prevention

Suicide is the act of intentionally taking one's own life. It is a complex and sensitive issue that can have a profound impact on individuals, families, and communities. While suicide is a highly individualized and multifaceted phenomenon, research suggests that factors such as mental illness, substance abuse, social isolation, traumatic life events, and access to lethal means can increase the risk of suicide.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), suicide is a leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for over 800,000 deaths each year. Suicide affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, but certain populations, such as LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and those experiencing economic hardship, are at a higher risk.

Prevention efforts for suicide can include access to mental health resources, crisis hotlines, and supportive communities. In addition, reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness and suicide can help encourage individuals to seek help and support. It's important to seek professional help if you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors.

Suicide statistics can vary depending on the region, age group, gender, and other factors. Here are some general suicide statistics:

• According to the World Health Organization (WHO), suicide accounts for around 1.4% of all deaths globally.
• In 2019, the age-adjusted suicide rate in the United States was 14.5 per 100,000 individuals, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
• In the United States, suicide is the 10th leading cause of death, with over 47,500 suicides reported in 2019.
• Men die by suicide more often than women, with a male-to-female ratio of 3.5:1 in the United States.
• LGBTQ+ individuals are at a higher risk of suicide, with some studies suggesting that they are up to four times more likely to attempt suicide than their heterosexual peers.
• In the United States, suicide rates among certain age groups have been increasing in recent years. For example, the suicide rate among youth ages 10-24 increased by 57% between 2007 and 2018.
• The COVID-19 pandemic has also been associated with an increase in mental health issues, including suicidal ideation and attempts, in many countries.

It's important to note that these statistics only represent reported suicides and may not reflect the full extent of the problem. Suicide prevention efforts are crucial to reducing the number of deaths by suicide and improving mental health outcomes for individuals and communities.

Of all the people, the friends and family members of people who committed suicide are affected the most.

Dr. Calm remarks, "Of all the emotions, grief is the one I have the greatest respect for. Grief is the most difficult one to overcome because we can’t see our loved ones who crossed the threshold over to the great beyond." He further elaborates, "Grief is mixed with love, for without love there is no grief. It’s hard to get over it. I know this by personal experience. There are times when no one will be able to console you, despite their best efforts."

"Then how do you overcome grief? How do you get back to normal? How do you move on with your life while the memories of your loved ones are still fresh in your mind? Sometimes these memories can be there with you not just for weeks or months, but for years. So, how do we hold on to the good memories while letting go of the painful ones, especially when both are tightly amalgamated? How do you let go of the emotional anguish?"

These are difficult questions. We know that you are in a difficult situation. Click here to get help on 'How to Overcome Grief and Find Solace'.  Dr. Calm can help you and guide you medically, emotionally, and spiritually. It's rare to have someone with expertise on these three levels. Do not wait. Click here for help. ('Overcome Grief and Find Solace' program).