Douglas Ruderfer, Ph.D., Associate Professor at Vanderbilt University Medical Center says, “Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States; that’s top three among young adults and adolescents.”
The rates of mental disorders linked to suicides are also on the rise. Studies show depression rates in the US tripled in the early months of the pandemic and a study from Boston University found depression now affects one in three Americans. JooEun Kang, MD, PhD candidate at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, says, “We know that depression is a major risk factor for suicide attempt.”Ruderfer states, “That oftentimes just starts or can begin with telling someone, a friend, a family member or a doctor, that you are, in fact, struggling.”
And if you know someone who is struggling, you don’t have to wait until they talk to you. Be sensitive and ask them direct questions, such as “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?” Or “Do you have access to weapons or things that can be used as weapons to harm yourself?” Studies show talking about suicide decreases rather than increases their risk for suicide. Also, encourage them to speak to a mental health professional and never promise to keep someone’s suicidal thoughts a secret.
There are things congress can do, too. New research from the American Psychological Association found in states that enact hate crime laws that protect LGBTQIA+ populations, the rate of suicide attempts among gay and straight high school students dropped significantly. If you or anyone you know needs help, you can call the National Suicide Prevention hotline at 988.
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