Trigger warning: This article and the attached links discuss suicide. Please take care while watching, reading, and researching.
In 2022, I conducted a talk for NAMI NC’s “Thursdays with NAMI” series about isolation and suicide. It was post-COVID, and I recall how overwhelming that time was for so many. Fast forward to 2024, I continue to learn about suicide and understand the importance of ongoing education in this area. As society evolves, we must continue to show up as learners and be prepared with tools to support and understand suicidality.
As a clinical mental health professional, it is my duty to stay up-to-date on how suicide affects various populations, understand and identify risk factors, and recognize protective factors that can be emphasized to help support clients. As suicide rates continue to rise, we can commit to continued learning.
There are many more resources beyond those included here, but below are a few links to increase your knowledge about suicide, who is at risk, and the risk factors associated with it:
Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death in children 10-14 years old, and rates have been rising for decades.
Read more from Little Otter Health
The 2023 U.S. National Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ Young People, conducted by The Trevor Project, identified that LGBTQ youth report lower rates of attempting suicide when they have access to affirming spaces. This is supported by increased public awareness and knowledge of appropriate ways to engage and offer support — and they want the people in their lives to learn more about how to support them and understand the basics of LGBTQ identities.
The Trevor Project. (2023). 2023 U.S. National Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ Young People.
Individuals experiencing neurodiversity are at an increased risk of suicidal thoughts, attempts, and completed suicide. Additionally, these individuals are more likely to have undiagnosed mental health needs.
Learn more about ADHD and suicidality: Read about autism and suicidality
Watch full video interview here.
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