Learn the suicide risk factors

According to the latest data available from the American Association of Suicidology, in 2021 there were 48,183 completed suicides in the United States, which is 132 per day. In 2021, 549 Iowans ended their own lives, an average of 1.5 every day. Suicide is a public health crisis. The suicide rate is the highest it has been since 1941, according to preliminary 2022 data reported by USA Today in November.

As 2024 begins, it is important to review basic information about suicide, as well what to do if you are concerned about someone being potentially suicidal.

Even after many years of research, it remains very difficult to predict suicidal behavior. However, there are a few key risk factors. These risk factors include but are not limited to depression, feeling hopeless and helpless, talking about wanting to die, low self-esteem, isolation/loneliness, experiencing violence and victimization, increased use of drugs/alcohol, and a previous attempt. Access to firearms is an additional concern, because for many years firearms have been the No. 1 method people have used in carrying out suicide. In 2022, 26,993 people ended their lives using a firearm, according to CDC provisional data in July 2023. In my view, reducing firearm access would lower the suicide rate, and is of paramount importance.

If you are concerned about someone being suicidal, it is important to reach out and ask what many suicidologists call “the question,” which is “Have you been feeling so badly lately that you have thought about harming yourself” or some approximation of this wording. A myth remains that by introducing the topic, we will give people the idea to carry out a suicide. You are more likely to save a life than cause a death by raising the issue and giving the individual permission to talk about how they are feeling. It is also important to provide the individual with hope, monitor them for risk, and encourage seeking help. Don’t give up encouraging the individual to seek treatment. It has been my experience people will frequently initially resist going for help — but with continued support and encouragement, many will eventually seek treatment. A very important resource is the phone number 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This number can also be texted. You can contact the 988 Lifeline for your own support should you be feeling suicidal, but also receive help in terms of assisting someone else who you consider potentially suicidal.

There have been some positive advances related to suicide prevention. One of the most recent and important is that after many years of discussion, a netting system has been put in place at the Golden Gate Bridge. I believe there is also more general awareness about the issue.

We need to educate the public about warning signs, what to do if concerned about someone, and available resources. We also need increased funding for mental health generally, and suicide prevention/response specifically. Hopefully, we can begin to reduce the suicide rate — and save lives.

John S. Westefeld is board-certified in counseling psychology, a suicidologist and a professor emeritus at The University of Iowa. The views expressed are his own.