Transcript Suicide Crisis Intervention - Western Carolina University

“As a society, we do not like to
talk about suicide.”
David Satcher, M.D., Ph.D.
Former Surgeon General of the U.S.
Suicide
The Truth about
Suicide: Facts, Myths,
and Intervention
Strategies
Suicide Statistics
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Every day, approximately 1500 Americans
attempt suicide
Every day, approximately 86 Americans
commit suicide
It is estimated that there are 25 attempts for
every 1 death by suicide
In the U.S., 30,000 people kill themselves
each year
Suicide stats. Cont’d
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Suicide is the 8th leading cause of death in
the U.S.
Suicide ranks 3rd as a cause of death among
young (15-24) Americans
Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death
among college students
Young people ages 15-24 make up the
largest increase in suicides during the past
30 years
Suicide stats. Cont’d
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90% of those who die by suicide have a
diagnosable psychiatric disorder at the time
of death
4 times more men than women kill
themselves, but 3 times more women
attempt
Firearms is the most commonly used method
of suicide.
Depression
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The risk of suicide in people with major
depression is about 20 times that of the
general population.
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Difference between depression and “normal”
sadness
Depression Symptoms
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Depressed or irritable mood
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
Loss or increase of appetite
Insomnia or hypersomnia
Loss of energy
Feelings of worthlessness
Feelings of guilt
Difficulty concentrating
Thoughts of death, suicidal ideations
Warning Signs
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Any depression symptoms
Actions to clear up one’s affairs or make amends
Neglect of personal hygiene or appearance
Giving away prized possessions or valuables
Talk about God, death, dying
Alcohol and/or drug abuse
Giving verbal clues, “I am no use to anyone
anymore” “I just want to go to sleep and not wake
up.”
Risk Factors
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Previous suicide attempt
Physical, sexual, emotional abuse victims
Possession of firearms
Impulsivity
Genetic predispositions, family history
Psychiatric diagnoses
Suicide Myths
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Talking to someone about suicidal thoughts
increases risk
If you talk about suicide, you won’t really do it
Once someone has decided to commit suicide, there
is nothing you can do.
Most who attempt suicide fully want to die.
If someone has already made an attempt and
survived, will not make another attempt
Suicidal people are always angry when you
intervene.
How to approach a suicidal friend
B e aware of the warning signs.
E ncourage your friend to talk.
A sk if he/she is thinking about suicide.
F ind out if he/she has a plan.
R emain calm and understanding. Don’t act shocked.
I nterested and supportive.
E mphathetic.
N ever be sworn to secrecy.
D irect to a professional.
National & Community Resources
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National Hopeline Network: 1-800-SUICIDE
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:
1-800-273-TALK
Counseling & Psychological Services (8 a.m-5 p.m.):
(828) 227-7469
Counseling & Psychological Services (after hours):
(828) 227-7301
Smoky Mountain Center- 24 hour crisis line:
1-800-849-6127