The COVID19 pandemic has had profound impact on many people’s mental health and according to The Lancet, concerns have been expressed that, at their most extreme, these consequences could manifest as increased suicide rates. In this post we will look at some facts and outcomes over the last year.

According to the American Association of Suicidology, suicide ranks as the 10th leading cause of death in the US and 2nd leading cause of death for 15-24 year old. In 2019 there was a total of 47,511 suicides and males are three times as likely as females to complete a suicide. This is a decrease of 2% from 2018, however these are still staggering numbers.  

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month — a time to raise awareness on this stigmatized, and often taboo, topic. In addition to shifting public perception, NAMI uses this month to spread hope and vital information to people affected by suicide. Their goal is ensuring that individuals, friends and families have access to the resources they need to discuss suicide prevention and to seek help.

Facts from NAMI on Suicide in the United States

  • Individual Impact:
    • 78% of all people who die by suicide are male.
    • Although more women than men attempt suicide, men are nearly 4x more likely to die by suicide.
    • The overall suicide rate in the U.S. has increased by 35% since 1999.
    • 46% of people who die by suicide had a diagnosed mental health condition.
    • While nearly half of individuals who die by suicide have a diagnosed mental health condition, research shows that 90% experienced symptoms.
  • Community Impact:
    • Annual prevalence of serious thoughts of suicide, by U.S. demographic group:
      • 4.8% of all adults
      • 11.8% of young adults aged 18-25
      • 18.8% of high school students
      • 46.8% of lesbian, gay and bisexual high school students
    • Some of the highest rates of suicide in the U.S. are among American Indian/Alaska Native and non-Hispanic white communities.
    • Lesbian, gay and bisexual youth are 4x more likely to attempt suicide than straight youth.
    • Transgender adults are nearly 12x more likely to attempt suicide than the general population.
    • Suicide is the leading cause of death for people held in local jails.

According to the Suicide Prevention Resource Center, suicide rates have not increased due to COVID19. Early recognition of mental health challenges during the pandemic may have helped increase support and services available.

Support your loved ones, Reach out and Make Hope Happen at Emerald Psychiatry & TMS Center.

About Emerald Psychiatry & TMS Center:

The successful treatment of mental illness is one of the specialties at Emerald Psychiatry & TMS Center. Their center is located near Columbus, OH in the town of Dublin. Their center is experienced at treating a wide-variety of behavioral and mental conditions.

For more information about their mental health services and treatment options, email or call them. Their direct office number is (614) 580-6917.

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