Statistics:

Suicide, as defined by Mayo Clinic, is the act of taking one’s own life. Globally, eight-hundred thousand people die each year from suicide and it is the second leading cause of death for people aged fifteen through twenty-four. In the United States, one hundred and twenty-five people take their lives every day. That is one person for almost every twelve minutes.

Causes of Suicide:

The causes of suicide range from genetic disorders to seeing no hope for the future and seeking an immediate “solution.” Suicide is not a solution, it is a means to an end. There are certain risk factors that make the presence of suicidal thoughts more prominent, such as a traumatic event, living in a hostile environment, overwhelming amounts of stress, and issues with substance abuse.

Signs To Look For:

There are numbers to call, teachers may help, and friends may be open to listening. Signs to look for in a friend or a loved one who you feel may be experiencing these feelings or thoughts are talking about suicide, withdrawing from social contact, mood swings, increase of bad behavior, including drugs and alcohol, saying goodbye, and having a sudden personality change.

Prevention and Help:

If you or you are suspecting a loved one having suicidal thoughts or feelings, reach out to a counselor, a friend, or a trusted adult. The number for Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is 988. They are open twenty-four hours a day and may be called or texted.

Suicide Statistics