The headlines are seemingly everywhere. With so many high-profile suicides in recent weeks and months, discussions about mental health and suicide are ramping up.

The fact is tens of thousands of Americans are dying by suicide each year.

The numbers are staggering and alarming. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that in 2016 alone, suicide claimed the lives of 45,000 people. This makes it the 10th leading cause of death in the United States.

Adults (especially men) between the ages of 45 and 54 have the highest suicide rates.

Depression is the most common mental health condition associated with suicide – especially if it is untreated. The National Institute of Mental Health says in 2016, an estimated 16 million American adults experienced at least one major depressive episode.

Of those, 37 percent did not receive any treatment for their depression.

Clearly, many people are struggling with mental illness, and some might even be contemplating suicide. With numbers this startling, there is a chance someone you know might be in crisis.

What Leads to Suicide?

It is often said that suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary crisis. Unfortunately, some people who are deeply in crisis just can’t see any other way out. They’re at high risk for suicide.

People thinking of suicide may feel trapped, as if their situation is just inescapable. The pain, along with their depression, is just so great that they don’t believe they’ll ever be able to feel better again.

The Risk Factors

There are many risk factors that may increase the likelihood of someone becoming suicidal. Among them:

• Mental disorders (particularly mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and certain personality disorders)

• Alcohol and other substance abuse

• Feelings of hopelessness

• Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies

• A history of trauma or abuse

• Major physical illnesses

• Previous suicide attempt(s)

• A family history of suicide

• Job or financial loss; relationship loss

These are just a few of the potential characteristics that may mean someone is at high risk for suicide. Unfortunately, another risk factor is exposure to others who have died by suicide – and this includes the high-profile suicides of the past few months.

The Warning Signs

How can you recognize the warning signs in someone who is suicidal? According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), the biggest warning sign is a change in behavior or suddenly exhibiting new behaviors. Watch what the person says and does very carefully – some of these warning signs are more obvious than others.

The AFSP says you want to pay attention to three areas: talk, behavior, and mood. You should also take into consideration any major painful events, losses, or changes in the person’s recent life.

Talk

If someone talks openly about killing himself or herself, or says they feel trapped and hopeless, these are clear warning signs. Someone at risk for suicide may also say things like, “I have no reason to live,” or, “I’m such a burden to others.”

Behavior

Certain behaviors, like increased use of drugs or alcohol, could signal that something is wrong. If you notice the person is becoming more isolated from friends and family, or withdrawing from activities they enjoy, that’s another warning sign. Additionally, a person considering suicide might start calling or visiting friends or family members, saying “goodbye” and giving away prized possessions. This is a red alert that this person needs help immediately.

Mood

A person considering suicide might be depressed. They might also be anxious, and it’s not at all unusual for them to be agitated or angry. And they might lose interest in anything. Fatigue is also common.

What Can You Do?

So, you have a friend or family member who may or may not be suicidal, but their behavior leads you to believe they could be thinking about it. You’ve noticed that some of the warning signs are there.

What can you do? If you bring up suicide, will that just lead the friend further down that dark path?

Experts say no.

You aren’t going to plant the idea of suicide in their head – it’s already there. Be direct. You must ask the tough question: “Are you thinking about killing yourself?” Talk openly and matter-of-factly about suicide and do so in a non-judgmental way.

By talking with your friend, and letting them know you are concerned, you may be able to help them.

And listen.

Listening is the most important thing you can do for someone in crisis. Pay attention to what your friend is saying to learn what they’re feeling.

And then, if you believe they are suicidal…

Get Help

Resources for those considering suicide are abundant in most communities. Suicidal thoughts and behaviors can be reduced with the proper mental health support and treatment. If you, or someone you know, is contemplating suicide, seek help. Community mental health centers, members of the clergy, and private counselors are all good sources.

Additionally, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline phone number is staffed 24/7.

The Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers from all over the U.S. Calls are completely confidential, and these experts can help guide you to the resources you need. To reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, call 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

When life’s challenges call for solutions, the Behavioral Health Center of Thibodaux Regional offers counseling services, an outpatient intensive treatment program, as well as inpatient behavioral health care. Care plans are customized for the individual and delivered by compassionate professionals in a safe, comfortable setting.

Lisa Matherne, LCSW-BACS, is the director of behavioral health at Thibodaux Regional Medical Center. For more information on inpatient services, call 985-493-4040 and for more information on outpatient services, call 985-493-4437.