Surge in Suicide Deaths Prompts Urgent Action, Identity Theft Victims at Higher Risk
The COVID-19 pandemic has had devastating effects on mental health, with suicide deaths in the U.S. on the rise. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were an estimated 48,183 suicide deaths in 2021, and this number is expected to increase to 49,449 deaths in 2022, representing a significant 2.6% surge.
In light of these alarming statistics, mental health officials are calling for urgent action during National Suicide Prevention Month in September to increase awareness and understanding of the signs that someone may be contemplating suicide.
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline has launched the #BeThe1To campaign, encouraging individuals to take proactive steps in preventing suicide. The aim is to shift the focus from suicide itself to promoting healing, support, and hope. By changing the conversation surrounding suicide, the Lifeline network and its partners hope to save lives and reverse the distressing trend of increasing suicide deaths.
While depression is often a significant factor contributing to suicidal ideation, a recently published report from the Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC) highlights another overlooked reason. The report reveals that victims of identity theft are more likely to contemplate suicide compared to others. In 2020, 8% of identity theft victims reported considering suicide, a percentage that doubled to 16% in 2022. This survey sheds light on the emotional toll that identity theft takes on its victims.
To combat this alarming rise in suicide deaths, the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline recommend the following steps:
1. Ask: Engage individuals in open conversations about suicide, as talking about it can reduce suicidal ideation rather than amplify it.
2. Help keep them safe: Limiting a person’s access to lethal means is crucial in preventing suicide.
3. Be there: Increasing an individual’s social connections and reducing isolation have proven to be protective factors against suicide.
4. Help them connect: Encouraging individuals to reach out to resources like the 988 Lifeline can significantly improve their emotional state, leading to reduced feelings of depression and suicidal thoughts.
5. Follow up: Checking in with someone who has experienced suicidal thoughts and providing ongoing support can foster a sense of connectedness, reducing their risk for suicide.
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIHM) outlines warning signs to look out for, such as withdrawal from friends and family, severe changes in sleep patterns, drastic mood swings, and expressing feelings of being a burden to others.
Efforts to prevent suicide require a multifaceted approach that includes public awareness campaigns, accessible mental health resources, and support systems for those in crisis. By collectively addressing this issue, society can make a significant impact and save countless lives.
In conclusion, the surge in suicide deaths demands immediate action from all sectors of society. The increase in suicides during the COVID-19 pandemic is a tragic and preventable loss of life. Through increased awareness, open conversations, and the promotion of support networks, we can reverse this distressing trend and provide hope and healing for those in need. Let us stand together during National Suicide Prevention Month and beyond, taking proactive steps to prevent suicide and support those who may be at risk.
