According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, each year 44,193 Americans die by suicide. For every suicide, 25 more people attempt. On average, there are 121 suicides per day. That means, every 12 minutes, someone dies by suicide every day.
For many, there are signs they are thinking of suicide. For some, they are very subtle. Some of the warning signs are: Talking about being a burden to others, feeling trapped, talking of suicide. They may have experienced a loss; a job or loved one, they may become easily agitated or withdraw from people. They may give away favorite possessions, they may begin to sleep more or not be able to sleep as well, they may start calling or visiting friends and family to say goodbye.
There are also risk factors which may include; mental illness either diagnosed or not, such as bi polar, depression, substance abuse problems, anxiety problems. Also, environmental issues like a stressful life event, divorce, death, loss of job, relationship problems, exposure to another person’s suicide, family history of suicide, or previous attempts.
There is no single cause of suicide. Undiagnosed or untreated mental health issues or substance abuse can trigger suicidal behavior, but most people actively managing their mental health issues can lead a fulfilling life.
Treatment can include psychotherapy and or medication. It’s important for health care professionals to recognize and treat depression to reduce suicide rates. There is a stigma about mental illness that needs to end, we need to train our teachers, health care workers and parents to recognize signs, and to teach the importance of mental health just as much as physical health.
Suicide leaves behind a lifetime of why’s and what if’s and unspeakable pain. It’s through this pain we want to shed some light and keep Stefanie’s memory alive by helping others the way she helped others, by supporting community needs and touching lives the way she did when she was here. Stefanie, this is for you.