Suicide is the leading cause of death for people ages 15 to 29 and for every suicide that results in death, there are as many as 40 attempted suicides.

The CDC data show that southwestern Washington has the state’s highest suicide rate, at 17.8 deaths per 100,000 people. The rate in the easternmost part of the state, and in the Puget Sound counties outside the Seattle area, are only a little lower. The Seattle area suicide rate is 13.7 deaths per 100,000 people, the lowest in the state.

Did you know that most people who attempt and die by suicide have a mental health condition although it’s often not diagnosed? Many people who consider and attempt suicide have never seen a behavioral health specialist. Almost all of these people though do see a healthcare professional within a year of their attempt.

Veterans

Connect with the Veterans Crisis Line to reach caring, qualified responders with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Many of them are Veterans themselves. Visit the Veterans Crisis Line or call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1 or Text at 838255.

Free Support is Confidential, Available 24/7, and serves Veterans, Services Members, National Guard and Reserves, and their family and friends.

Healthcare Professionals Can Help!

A study found that almost 40 percent of people have a healthcare visit within a week prior to their suicide attempt. Healthcare professionals are in a unique position to notice depression and suicide warning signs in their patients and intervene early. Suicide is a preventable public health issue. Understanding the stressors and hopelessness that lead people to consider suicide and connecting them to the appropriate help can save lives.

Training Requirements – What are the suicide prevention training requirements for my profession?

Model List – Where can I find a list of approved training programs?

Resources – Are there other resources I can use to prevent suicides in the workplace?

Adults

Suicide is a serious public health problem in Washington. It affects people of all ages in communities across the state. If you need help, immediately call 1-800-273-8255 for the Free Suicide Lifeline or visit Lifeline Crisis Chat, the Lifeline Website, or Text “HEAL” to 741741 Crisis Text Line.

Teens

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for Washington youth between the ages of 15 to 19.

On average, in 2017, each week in Washington: Nearly four youths killed themselves. Two youth ages 10-24 were hospitalized because of intentional self-injuries, which includes suicide attempts.

If you are a teen or student in need, call 1-866-833-6546 Teen Link, 1–800-273-8255 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, contact the  Lifeline Crisis Chat, or Text “HEAL” to 741741 Crisis Text Line

First Responders

First responders, including emergency medical services (EMS) personnel and firefighters, can assist individuals in a suicidal crisis, as well as those who may be affected by a suicide death or attempt. First response agencies also have a role to play in assisting their own staff, who may experience increased risk of suicide as a result of exposure to traumatic emergencies.

• Fire/EMS Helpline: 1-888-731-FIRE (3473).
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
• CopLine: 1-800-267-5463.

If you need help, immediately call 1-800-273-8255 for the Free Suicide Lifeline or visit Lifeline Crisis Chat, the Lifeline Website, or Text “HEAL” to 741741 Crisis Text Line.

Thank you

Thank you for reading this Blog/Article. Suicide is preventable. When our family, friends, neighbors are in need, our community can rise to the occasion and help. Suicide Prevention is a Team Sport! Join the Team and be sure to help our family, friends, and neighbors to overcome their doubts and struggles. #WorldSuicidePreventionDay