• Suicide Prevention and Risk Factors

    Statistics about suicide from the Washington State Deparment of Health

    • Suicide is the second leading cause of death in Washington State for youth 10-24 years old and the third leading cause of death nationwide
    • There were nearly twice as many suicides as homicides of youth ages 10-24.
    • In Washington State and anationally, females attempted suidice more frequently, and males died by suicide more often by a ration of at least 4:1
    • In Washington State, firearms were the leading method of suicide for both males and females

    Suicide Risk Factors

    • Mental illness including depression, conduct disorders, and substance abuse
    • Family stress/dysfunction
    • Environmental risks
    • Situational crises (death of loved one, abuse, breakup, violence, etc)

    Suicide Warning Signs

    • Unable to focus or think clearly
    • Withdrawal from friends or family
    • Changes in appearance and personality
    • Feelings of depression, loneliness, or isolation
    • Talking about being a burden to others
    • Wanting to escape a painful or difficulut situation
    • Suicidal threats in the form of direct and indirect statements
    • Increased use of drug and/or alcohol
    • Suicide notes and plans
    • Making final arrangements (writing a will, giving away prized possessions)
    • Preoccupation with death
    • Can't see a way out (hopelessness)

    What to do

    • Remain calm
    • Ask youth directly if he or she is thinking about suicide
    • Focus on your concern for their wellbeing and avoid being accusatory
    • Listen without judgement
    • Reassure them that there is help and they will not feel like this forever
    • Provide constant supervision.  Do not leave the youth alone
    • Remove means for self-harm
    • Get help!(Seek help from school or community mental health resources as soon as possible)

    Resliency Factors

    • Family support and cohesion, including good communication
    • Peer support and close social networks
    • School and community connectedness
    • Cultural or religious beliefs
    • Adaptive coping and problem-solving skills, including conflict resolution
    • General life satisfaction, good self-esteem, sense of purpose
    • Easy access to effective medical and mental health resources

    Resources

    • 24/7 Regional Crisis Line  1-877-266-1818
    • Child Protective Services 1-800 ENDHARM   24-Hour Hotline
    • Crime Victim Crisis Line  - 509-751-6596
    • HIV/Aids Hotline  1-800-272-2437 
    • National Youth Crisis Hotline
      • 800-442-HOPE
      • 24 Hour Hotline
      • Drug Treatment, pregnancy, suicide, etc.
    • Runaway 1-800 RUNAWAY National Runaway hotline
    • Sexual Assault Crisis Line  509-624-7273