Suicide prevention

According to information from the United Health Foundation, average suicide rates in Wyoming have been higher than the national average. In 2018, there were 25.2 suicides per 100,00 population compared to the 13.9 nationally. The number of suicides in Wyoming has gone down compared to 2017’s 27.5, but is still higher than the 20.8 seen in 2016.

Suicide is a serious public health issue that impacts people of all ages and backgrounds. It is estimated that every 13 minutes someone in the United States takes their life and many more attempt suicide or have suicidal ideations.

September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and National Suicide Prevention Week is Sept. 8-14. #BeThe1To is the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s message for the month, which helps spread the word about actions we can all take to help someone feel more hopeful, engage in help-seeking behaviors, experience recovery, and to prevent suicide. #BeThe1To take these actions:

•Ask: Asking the question “Are you thinking about suicide?” communicates that you’re open to speaking in a non-judgmental and supportive way. Other questions include “How do you hurt?” and “How can I help?” Don’t forget to listen!

•Keep Them Safe: Studies have indicated that when lethal means are made less available or less deadly, suicidal rates by that method decline, and frequently suicide rates overall decline. Gun locks are available free of charge by the Hot Springs County Prevention Program. Call 864-6520 if you are interested in a free gun lock.

•Be There. Individuals are more likely to feel less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful after speaking to someone who listens without judgment.

•Help Them Stay Connected: Helping someone at risk create a network of resources and individuals for support and safety can help them take positive action and reduce feelings of hopelessness.

•Follow-up: Intervention and supportive, ongoing contact may be an important part of suicide prevention, especially for individuals after they have been discharged from the hospital or care service.

If you’re concerned about yourself or someone else, please call the Suicide Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or text WYO to 741741. It is free and confidential, and available 24/7.

Warning signs of suicide may include: talking about wanting to die, looking for a way to kill oneself, talking about feeling hopeless or having no purpose, talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain, talking about being a burden to others, increasing the use of alcohol or drugs, acting anxious, agitated or recklessly, sleeping too little or too much, withdrawing or feeling isolated, showing rage or talking about seeking revenge, or displaying extreme mood swings

The more of these signs a person shows, the greater the risk. Warning signs are associated with suicide but may not be what causes a suicide.

If someone you know exhibits warning signs of suicide: do not leave the person alone, remove any firearms, alcohol, drugs or sharp objects that could be used in a suicide attempt, call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255), and Take the person to an emergency room or seek help from a medical or mental health professional.

The Hot Springs County Prevention Coalition meets monthly with a focus of strengthening our community and working to prevent substance abuse and suicide. If you are interested in joining their efforts, please contact Jennifer Cheney, Community Prevention Specialist, at 864-6520.