Out of Harm's Way: Place Informed Conversations and Screening in the Forefront of Suicide Prevention-Out of Harm's Way

Out of Harm's Way

Pdf Summary

Suicide is a significant public health issue that affects individuals, families, communities, and society at large. In 2020, suicide caused 45,979 deaths in the United States, making it one of the top nine causes of death for people ages 10 to 64. An estimated 1.2 million Americans attempted suicide, 3.2 million planned a suicide attempt, and 12.2 million had serious suicidal thoughts. Suicide affects people of all ages, races, genders, sexual orientations, religions, and communities. Social isolation, economic and family stressors, mental health symptoms, and disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic contribute to suicide rates. Childhood trauma or maltreatment is also associated with an increased risk for suicide in adults. Suicide prevention requires a comprehensive approach that involves mental health experts, primary care providers, social workers, educators, youth advocates, individuals with lived experience, and family and community resources. Suicide prevention training programs like QPR and Mental Health First Aid offer instruction on recognizing warning signs for suicide and referring people for help. Primary care providers play a key role in reducing suicide risks as they are often the first point of contact for individuals at risk. Screening for mental health and substance use disorders in primary care settings is crucial, and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends routine screening for all adults and adolescents. Interdisciplinary collaboration among healthcare providers is essential for ongoing care and treatment. Efforts to reduce the suicide rate include the implementation of a three-digit number (988) to access the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, as well as the promotion of accessible mental healthcare and resources. It is important to address stigma surrounding mental health, educate the public about suicide risk factors, and provide support and resources to individuals at risk. With improved access to mental health treatment services, public awareness, and support from the community, it is possible to provide a sense of hope, recovery, and resilience for individuals struggling with suicide.

Keywords

suicide

public health

deaths

United States

causes of death

suicide rates

COVID-19 pandemic

mental health

suicide prevention

primary care providers