National Suicide Awareness Month
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September Is National Suicide Awareness Month Sponsored by the National Association of Mental Illness (NAMI) - All month, mental health advocates, prevention organizations, survivors, allies, and community members unite to promote suicide prevention awareness. Campbell County Health wants to join in on the fight to end the stigma and bring awareness by sharing resources and information for patients and community members.
The Statistics
Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death overall in the United States, it is the second leading cause of death among young people age 10-34 years old.
Between 1999 - 2016 the rates of suicide has increased to 30 %
Among younger children, suicide attempts are often impulsive. They may be associated with feelings of sadness, confusion, and anger. Among teenagers, suicide attempts may be associated with feelings of stress, self-doubt, pressure to succeed, financial uncertainty, disappointment, and loss. For some teens, suicide may appear to be a solution to their problems.
Risk Factors
Family history of suicide attempts
Exposure to violence
Impulsivity
Aggressive or disruptive behavior
Access to firearms
Bullying
Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness
Acute loss or rejection
Warning Signs
Changes in eating and sleeping habits
Frequent or pervasive sadness
Withdrawal from friends, family, and regular activities
Frequent complaints about physical symptoms often related to emotions, such as stomachaches, headaches, fatigue, etc.
Decline in the quality of schoolwork
Preoccupation with death and dying
Getting Involved
We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.
CALL OR TEXT 24/7 FREE CRISIS? SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE.
Learn more about local resources at Campbell County Health: Behavioral Health Services | Counseling Gillette Wyoming (cchwyo.org)
This blog was constructed by Gilbert Smith, DO at Campbell County Health Behavioral Health Services. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Smith, call 307.688.5000.
Sources: https://www.crisistextline.org/
https://988lifeline.org/promote-national-suicide-prevention-month/
https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Facts_for_Families/FFF-Guide/Teen-Suicide-010.aspx