September is Suicide Prevention Month.
Suicide continues to be a growing public health problem. It is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Increasing understanding, fighting the stigma, and opening up communication about suicidality can help to protect against the risk of suicide.
If you are looking for an Anxiety Therapist Near Me in Moorestown, then look no further than Mind, Body, and Soul Therapy & Counseling. We are passionate about caring for our community and fighting against the stigma and misunderstandings surrounding suicide. Understanding the myths and facts about suicide can help our community decrease stigma and increase understanding. Below are 5 myths and facts about suicide.
Myth 1.
Talking about suicide increases the risk of suicide
Due to the stigma associated with suicide, people are often uncomfortable talking about it. However, opening up a conversation about suicide can allow individuals who are struggling to find healthy options, support, or a different perspective on their situation.
Myth 2.
Most suicides do not have warning signs
There are many warning signs or red flags of suicidal behavior. If you are concerned that a loved one is exhibiting these signs or other risks for suicide, reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
Below is a list of suicide warning signs:
- Increased substance use
- Social withdrawal
- Giving away important possessions
- Saying goodbye or “tying up loose ends”
- Impulsive behavior
- Expressing suicidal thoughts
- Hopelessness
In addition to certain risk factors and warning signs for suicide, there are also protective factors against the risk of suicide.
Protective Factors Include:
- Reasons for Living, such as family, spirituality, or feeling connected
- Engagement in counseling
- Healthy and effective coping skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Religious, cultural, or moral objections towards suicide
- Reduced access to lethal means of suicide
Myth 3.
Only people with a mental health disorder die by suicide
Many people with mental health disorders do not have suicidal thoughts. According to the CDC, more than half of individuals who die by suicide were never diagnosed with a mental health disorder. Major life stressors or changes can trigger suicidal thoughts and behaviors for people who have never had a mental health diagnosis.
Myth 4.
Teenagers are the most at-risk for suicide
Mental health awareness and suicide prevention efforts for adolescents is very important. However, individuals age 10-24 account for 15% for all suicides, while adults age 35-64 account for 46% of all suicides. The rate of suicide is highest among older men.
If you have concerns about your adolescent, talk with your teen about mental health, model healthy self-care, and reach out for professional counseling. If you are interested in learning more about mental health in children and adolescents, take a look at our May blog on Mental Health in Children. At Mind, Body and Soul, we have therapists who specialize in counseling adolescents.
Myth 5.
People who die by suicide are “selfish”
Death by suicide is not a “selfish choice.” Individuals who attempt or die by suicide are experiencing a complex and debilitating set of symptoms including hopelessness, emotional pain, and helplessness.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or behaviors, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.
If you are interested in starting counseling, reach out to Mind, Body, and Soul Therapy & Counseling at 856-834-3709. We have offices in Moorestown and Collingswood, and we provide both in-person and online therapy sessions for people of all ages.