Why is this happening?
The CDC team dug deeply into suicide details in 27 states. Here’s what they found:n 54 percent did not have a known mental health conditionn 42 percent had a relationship problemn 28 percent had substance abuse issuesn 16 percent had job or financial problemsn 29 percent had some kind of crisisn 22 percent had a physical health issuen 9 percent had a criminal legal problemSource: CDC
How to help
n States can help ease unemployment and housing stress by providing temporary help.n Health care systems can offer treatment options by phone or online where services are not widely available.n Communities can offer programs and events to increase a sense of belonging among residents.n Schools can teach students skills to manage challenges like relationship and school problems.n If you see someone who may be struggling, ask them about it and stay with them.n If you are looking for help, please call the National Suicide Prevention hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). There is also a crisis text line: Text HOME to 741741.Source: CDC
More Americans are dying of suicides.
We received three big reminders of that fact this week – two celebrity deaths and a monumental report.
It all goes to show that we rarely understand the hidden pain in people’s lives.