During April, in a small community of 2,000 in Ontario, Canada, there were 16 suicide attempts in just a few days and even 100 more since 2015. How does something like that happen? Some people believe that one attempt triggers more, which is known as the Werther effect. Is that what’s happening in Canada? Experts believe that it’s more likely that the community is broken. The high unemployment rates and lack of treatment lead to feelings of despair. The Canadian government is doing all it can to prevent more suicides in the community, but it will take time to change the culture.
Although this scenario seems unlikely in the United States, it’s worth noting that suicide rates are on the rise in America. From 1986 to 1999, the suicide rates were on a decline. Then, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the rates began to increase again. In 2014, suicides were the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S. It’s not just teenagers who are dying by suicide. All age groups among both genders are on the rise.
Concern for Middle-Aged Men
One of the most dramatic increases was that of men in the age range of 45 to 64. Suicide rates for this group jumped by 43 percent over the 15 years in the study. According to Men’s Health Magazine, there’s no one cause for that spike, just a set of complex issues, such as:
- Men tend to avoid getting help for mental health problems
- Opioid overdoses and narcotic abuse
- Economic stresses, job losses and the recession tend to affect older men more than their younger peers
- Not being connected socially
Although all age groups are struggling with all of these issues, older men may believe that they just don’t have enough time to rebound. Another issue that could increase the suicide rates in men of this age range is that they don’t often exhibit traditional signs of depression. Also, they’re often just told to “suck it up” or “get over it,” rather than being directed to a mental health professional.
Fortunately, there are many helplines which can help individuals in a crisis. When you’re facing serious problems that are making it difficult to cope with everyday life, the National Suicide Prevention Helpline is available 24/7 by calling 1 (800) 273-8255. There’s also a chat version at suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
Factors That Protect a Loved One
What if you’re a loved one sitting on the sideline watching someone go through this? What can you do? The Suicide Prevention Lifeline website lists multiple things that are considered “protective factors,” which reduce the risk of suicide in people of all ages. Having connections to family and friends is one of those things that helps individuals who are facing the types of problems that lead to suicide.
Finding effective clinical treatment is another way to reduce the risk of suicide. When a person begins to exhibit signs of depression or substance abuse, encourage them to get treatment before the condition deteriorates. Once someone is in treatment, they need ongoing support to get well.
You should speak up if you are concerned about a loved one, but you shouldn’t try to argue with someone who is considering suicide. It’s important to let that person know that you care for them. Another good thing to say is, “I’m here for you.” You don’t want to be judgmental or find ways to fix their problems. Don’t promise confidentiality either.
Do offer to help them find a mental health counselor. You may need to be proactive as well. Instead of telling this person to call you if there’s a problem, take the initiative and call them regularly. Encourage changes in their lifestyle like healthy eating and exercise, which can help reduce stress. Changing the statistics of increasing suicide rates in the United States isn’t going to happen overnight. Caring people who help their loved ones will make the difference.