Suicide is devastating for family, friends and loved ones left behind. It's also a major public health concern. In 2021, suicide was the 11th leading cause of death overall in the United States, claiming the lives of more than 48,100 people, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.

Edward Dickerhoof, LPCC-S, is a practice lead/clinical coordinator with Aultman Behavioral Health and Counseling. On World Suicide Prevention Day, he discusses how community members can work together to prevent suicide. You can help by getting involved in initiatives like these.

Suicide prevention is a multi-faceted approach that requires a strategic and compassionate effort from individuals, communities and institutions. Here’s an expanded look at the critical steps involved in preventing suicide.

Education and Awareness

Raising awareness about suicide and mental health is a foundational step in prevention. Public education campaigns can help demystify mental health issues and reduce stigma, making it easier for individuals to seek help.

Schools, workplaces and community organizations can implement training programs that educate people on recognizing warning signs of suicide, such as drastic changes in behavior, withdrawal or expressions of hopelessness. These programs should also emphasize the importance of empathy and understanding, encouraging people to offer support and listen to those in distress without judgment.

Early Identification and Screening

Early identification of individuals at risk of suicide is crucial for effective intervention. Routine mental health screenings in various settings, including schools, workplaces and healthcare facilities, can help identify those who may be experiencing significant distress.

These screenings should assess factors such as mental health history, substance abuse and recent life changes. For high-risk populations such as adolescents, veterans and individuals with chronic mental health conditions, targeted screenings and monitoring can be particularly effective.

Healthcare providers and educators should be trained to conduct thorough assessments and be vigilant in spotting signs of potential suicidal thoughts or behaviors.

Accessible Mental Health Services

Ensuring that mental health services are available, affordable and accessible is key to suicide prevention. This involves expanding the availability of counseling, therapy and psychiatric services, particularly in underserved areas. Increasing funding for mental health programs, reducing barriers to access and integrating mental health services into primary care can help.

Additionally, telehealth services have proven valuable in reaching individuals who may face barriers to in-person care, such as those living in remote areas or those with mobility issues. Access to mental health resources must be made a priority to ensure that help is available when needed.

Crisis Intervention and Support Systems

Effective crisis intervention strategies are essential for addressing immediate risks. Establishing and promoting 24/7 crisis hotlines, text lines and emergency response services provides individuals in distress with immediate access to help.

Crisis intervention teams, which include trained professionals and peer counselors, can offer support and manage acute situations effectively. Community mental health centers and emergency departments should be equipped with protocols to handle crises and provide immediate care.
Support systems should also include follow-up services to ensure continuity of care and ongoing support for individuals who have experienced a crisis.

Creating Supportive Environments

Building supportive environments that foster mental well-being can significantly contribute to suicide prevention. Schools, workplaces and community organizations should implement policies and practices that promote mental health, reduce stressors and encourage a culture of support.

For instance, schools can integrate mental health education into the curriculum, workplaces can offer employee assistance programs and mental health days, and communities can develop initiatives to support social connectedness and reduce isolation. Creating safe spaces for open dialogue about mental health can help individuals feel less alone and more supported.

Training for Professionals

Training professionals across various fields is crucial for effective suicide prevention. This includes educators, healthcare providers, law enforcement officers and first responders. Training should focus on identifying risk factors, conducting risk assessments and intervening appropriately.

Programs should also cover how to provide appropriate referrals to mental health services and how to support individuals through crises. Ongoing professional development ensures that those working with individuals at risk are up to date on best practices and emerging trends in suicide prevention.

Follow-Up and Aftercare

Providing follow-up care and aftercare is critical for individuals who have experienced suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Aftercare involves continuous monitoring, therapy and support to help individuals manage their mental health and reduce the risk of relapse.

This can include regular check-ins with mental health professionals, participation in support groups, and ongoing engagement with treatment plans. Ensuring that individuals have access to resources and support networks during their recovery can help them build resilience and maintain their mental well-being.

By incorporating these comprehensive strategies into suicide prevention efforts, we can create a more supportive and effective framework that addresses the diverse needs of individuals at risk and works toward reducing suicide rates on a broader scale.

Take threats of suicide as a cry for help. Always take statements of suicidal feelings, thoughts, behaviors or plans very seriously. Any person who expresses thoughts of suicide needs help immediately.

If someone is threatening suicide, call or text 988 or 800-273-TALK (800-273-8255) right away. When you call or text 988, you will be connected to trained counselors who are part of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline network. An online chat choice is also available. This service is free and available 24/7.

You can also take the person to the nearest emergency room or contact their mental health provider.