LIFESTYLE
National Suicide Prevention Week A call to join hands
The growing rate of suicide in the United States is worrisome, to say the least. According to the CDC, there has been a 25% rise in the suicide rates nationwide between 1999 and 2017. Interestingly, this statistic was released in what is arguably the most popular suicide week in recent memory. Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain’s deaths were just a few days apart and the suicide prevention hotline reported a 25% spike in calls during that week. These events and the other 44,000 suicide deaths that occur yearly highlight the already common knowledge that there is a mental health crisis in the country. The National Suicide Prevention Week is held annually to create awareness about suicide and engage health professionals as well as the general public. Since 2005, this week has been celebrated from the Sunday to Saturday that covers the Suicide Prevention Day (September 10). The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is responsible for selecting themes for the event and ‘The Power of Connections’ served as the theme for the 2018 NSPW. Although the week has come and gone, conversations surrounding suicide and mental health should be all year Trend Privé Magazine 96
round. What’s responsible for the rising rates? The rising suicide rates cannot be attributed to a single factor. Financial difficulties, relationship issues, and an increased sense of isolations appear to be the factors that are most frequently implicated. However, it is difficult to make broad statements about suicide. Experts have also pointed at an inadequate funding for mental health prevention and research. The opioid crisis is also thought to be responsible for an increase in suicide rates. About 90% of all suicide victims have a history of mental health disorder or addiction. Firearms is another public issue that has contributed to a rise in suicide rates. Although a majority of discussions surrounding gun control would be centered on horrific, pointless shootings, statistics show that an overwhelming number of deaths that occur as a result of firearms are suicides. According to the CDC, 66% of gun-related deaths are suicides. Individuals that attempt suicide using
a firearm have more than 95% chance of succeeding. The less than 15% chance of individuals that overdose on prescription drugs pale in comparison. What can be done? The approach to suicide prevention has to be multi-faceted, just like the causes of suicide.
