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Suicide is an urgent and growing public health crisis. More than 49,000 people in the United States died by suicide in 2023. That is one death every 11 minutes according to the US Department of Health & Human Services. And the suicide rate in Texas has increased by 29.7% over the past 20 years. This is extremely alarming and requires a response from every citizen; each individua should become familiar with the warning signs of suicide, both for adults and our youth. Plus, we each must develop a new attitude, that is, if we are worried about someone or see any of the warning signs, we must talk to them, and we must reach out for help.
Knowing someone who has committed suicide, loving that person, is the most bewildering and devastating experience an individual and family can have. It leaves the living with so many unanswered questions, feelings of guilt and shame, confusion, and too often anxiety, depression, and anger.
Look at the Texas suicide rates. Throughout the State of Texas, suicide is the:
• 2nd leading cause of death ages 10-34
• 4th leading cause of death ages 35-44
• 5th leading cause of death ages 45-54
• 9th leading cause of death ages 55-64
• 17th leading cause of death ages 65+
Suicide warning signs for adults
• Talking about or making plans for suicide.
• Acting anxious or agitated, behaving recklessly.
• Talking about being a burden to others.
• Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.
• Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
• Sleeping too little or too much.
• Withdrawing or feeling isolated.
• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.
• Displaying extreme mood swings.
Remember, risk is greater if a behavior is new or has increased, and it seems related to a painful event, loss, or change.
Suicide warning signs for youth
• Talking about or making plans for suicide.
• Expressing hopelessness about the future.
• Displaying severe/overwhelming emotional pain or distress.
• Showing worrisome changes in behavior, particularly in combination with the warning signs above, including:
• Withdrawal from or changing social connections/situations.
• Changes in sleep (increased or decreased).
• Anger or hostility that seems out of character.
• Recent increased agitation or irritability.
If you notice any of these signs in a family member or friend, please take immediate action.
988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, is available 24/7 and you can call, text or chat at 988lifeline. org. It is a free national service.
No one needs to feel alone. There are trained counselors who will talk (English and Spanish) to individuals or a concerned family member or friend.
Dr. Mazie Leftwich, President of The Wellness Council of Greater Colorado Valley PsyD, LCSW Emeritus.
