September 10th has been recognized annually since 2003 as World Suicide Prevention Day. Founded by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) with endorsement from the World Health Organization (WHO), the main goal of this initiative is to promote worldwide awareness and action to prevent suicide. There is a strong connection between mental health disorders and suicide, especially depression disorders. If you have had thoughts about or have attempted suicide, help is available at Harmony Hills’ depression treatment program. You can reach our team 24/7 by calling 855.494.0357.
The Importance of Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Treatment
Nearly one million people, approximately 3,000 per day, die by suicide each year throughout the world. Estimates predict that for every person who dies by suicide, 25 others make a suicide attempt. A suicide attempt indicates that an individual is suffering greatly and needs mental health treatment from qualified professionals.
Suicide is the most preventable contributor to premature death throughout the world. Depression is the most common risk factor for suicidal behavior, followed by substance abuse or addiction. The risk for suicide is further increased when an individual suffers from a co-occurring disorder. The most common co-occurring disorders diagnosed with substance use disorders include the following:
- Major depression
- Bipolar disorder
- PTSD
- Trauma
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Eating Disorders
Suicide impacts people from all walks of life. Most suicidal individuals want to live but are unable to recognize alternatives to their problems and pain. One of the biggest barriers to preventing suicide is the stigma surrounding mental health issues, which prevents people from seeking help when they need it. The importance of World Suicide Prevention Day is to spread awareness about suicide to help reduce the stigma so that those in need are more likely to reach out for help.
Recognizing the Warning Signs of Depression and Suicide
Depression is one of the most common and serious mental health issues for people of all ages. Some people suffering from depression may not recognize it, while others may try to hide their symptoms. While depression affects everyone differently, there are some common signs to watch out for, including:
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Increased drug or alcohol use
- Inability to concentrate
- Loss of interest in activities or social isolation
- Irritability or mood swings
- Significant weight changes or lack of personal hygiene
- Inability to tend to daily responsibilities
The biological, environmental, and psychosocial risk factors that contribute to addiction and mental health conditions also increase the risk for suicide. While most people who have these risk factors will not attempt suicide, it is difficult to predict who will. Risk factors are essential to keep in mind, but individuals exhibiting warning signs should get help immediately. Some common warning signs to watch for include the following:
- Previous suicide attempt(s)
- Talking about wanting to die or verbal threats like “Maybe I won’t be around.”
- Risk-taking behaviors that could lead to death
- Giving away possessions
- Saying goodbye to friends and family
- Getting affairs in order such as paying debts or writing a will
- Talking about being a burden, feeling hopeless, or having no reason to live
If you think that someone you love is at risk for suicide, trust your instincts. Talk with the person about your concerns. Contrary to popular belief, talking to someone about suicide does not cause them to become suicidal. It may be one of the most helpful things you can do for them.
Learn About Harmony Hills’ Depression Treatment Program
The depression treatment program at Harmony Hills helps clients discover the causes of their depression and provides the compassionate support and care needed to promote healing, learn new coping skills, and prevent suicidal behaviors. We provide evidence-based therapies proven effective in helping individuals overcome a wide array of mental health disorders, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders.
Without proper treatment, individuals suffering from these disorders are at increased risk for self-harm, overdose, and suicide. Suicide is preventable. Call us at 855.494.0357 to get the help needed for yourself or your loved one today.