"In our community, suicide is the leading cause of death due to injury," said Plough. "We must recognize suicide as a public health problem and learn how to intervene."
Even though suicide rates have held steady during the past decade, nationally there is still one suicide every 17 minutes.
"Suicide cuts across all demographic groups, but some are particularly vulnerable," said Plough.
In King County:
- Suicide attempts are more common among women, but men have a higher completed suicide rate.
- Suicide is a significant cause of death among young people.
- White males over 65 years of age have the highest completed suicide rate.
- Firearms are a significant enabling factor and increase the chance for a completed suicide.
An important first step in preventing suicide is talking about it.
"We must eliminate the myth that talking about suicide will cause someone to commit suicide," said Sue Eastgard, director of Washington's Youth Suicide Prevention Program. "We should reduce the shame and stigma associated with asking for help."
Suicide prevention involves knowing the warning signs and taking the necessary preventive steps.
The following WARNING SIGNS can alert you that somebody you know has a problem:
- Previously attempted suicide or knows a friend or family member who committed suicide
- Talks about suicide, makes a plan, or gives away prized possessions
- Shows signs of depression, such as moodiness, hopelessness and withdrawal
- Uses more alcohol and/or other drugs
- Has access to a firearm
- Takes impulsive and unnecessary risks
- Lacks a connection to family and friends
Between 1989 and 1998, firearm suicides were responsible for 65% of all firearm deaths. Consequently, safe storage of firearms is an important preventive strategy.
Other PREVENTIVE MEASURES should be taken if warning signs are observed:
- Take the person seriously
- Listen to the person's feelings, without giving a lot of advice or suggesting simple solutions
- If the person's words or actions scare you, let the person know. Don't be cheerful or phony
- Get the advice of a mental health or suicide prevention specialist
If you or somebody you know needs help, please call:
- Seattle/King County Crisis Clinic
206-461-3222; 1-800-244-5767; TTY: 206-461-3219
- Teen Link
206-461-4922; 888-431-8336
To get more information on suicide prevention, visit:
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