Talking About Suicide: The First Step to Helping People Who Are Struggling

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Health Equity Monthly Focus
By Anita Ramsetty, MD, Director of Health Equity

September 2024

Did you know that suicide remains among the most common causes of death in this country?

Here are some sobering statistics:

• Men ages 75 and older have the highest rate of any age group.
• When adjusted for age among the entire population, rates of suicide are highest among those who identify as non-Hispanic American Indian/Alaskan Native.
• Even though overall suicide among youths is lower by age, it is the second leading cause of death for those aged 10–24 years. And further worrisome is that it has increased by over 50% between 2000 and 2021. In 2021 almost 1 in 10 high-schoolers reported a suicide attempt in the past 12 months.
• Among our youth who identify as sexual minorities (lesbian, gay, or bisexual), rates are even higher at 25%.
• Among our veterans, suicide is the second leading cause of death for those under the age of 45 years.

While we have gained insights and taken steps forward in talking openly about mental health concerns, including depression and suicide, we have a long way to go still. For many of us growing up, suicide was not openly spoken about. Whether for cultural or religious reasons, the stigma associated with it, or just discomfort speaking about something so personal, suicide may be a taboo subject for many. In the years since my childhood some of this has changed but, still, many communities (families and larger groups of people) are challenged talking about suicide.

One question I sometimes hear discussed a lot is, “Should you even talk about it? Out in the open?”

My answer is “Yes!” Recent research, including information from people who are struggling with depression and thinking about suicide, shows that it is incredibly important to talk about it. Talking about suicide does not suddenly make people want to take their own lives. In fact, talking about it may open the door for someone struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts to open up and seek help.

So that’s the first step: encouraging open conversation. And then sharing information about suicide hotlines available at all times.

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression and thoughts of self-harm including suicide, please seek help immediately. Do not wait!

In the U.S., call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org to reach a trained counselor. Call 988 and press "1" to reach the Veterans Crisis Line.

The NJ Mental Health Cares hotline is also a good resource. The number is 866-202-HELP (4357).