Social & Emotional

Suicide Prevention & Risk Factors

Statistics about suicide from the Washington State Department 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 nationally, females attempted suicide more frequently, and males died by suicide more often by a ratio of at least 4:1.
• In Washington State, firearms were the leading method of suicide for both males and females.
• Spokane suicide rates are two times the state rate in Washington.
• Among Spokane county residents, each year there is an average of 300 hospitalizations for suicide attempts and 70 completed suicides

Suicide Risk Factors

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

Resiliency 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