Warning Signs Of Suicidal Tendencies
There is a wealth of information about suicide available online, but one common theme you may note while reviewing these resources is their agreement that suicide is preventable. Unfortunately, these tragedies still occur with alarming frequency. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that almost 46,000 people die by suicide every year, amounting to approximately 1 fatality every 11 minutes. The data on people who contemplate suicide is higher and even more shocking: CDC officials estimate that 12.2 million people seriously consider taking their own lives, 3.2 million have a plan to do so, and 1.2 individuals made an attempt.
Suicide is considered preventable because efforts by family, community, and society as a whole can help save lives. Still, health care providers must also do their part, being on the front lines of treatment for at-risk individuals. The signs are typically evident, so a physician has the duty to take appropriate action. A Miami preventable suicide lawyer can assist with legal remedies, which may fall under state medical malpractice laws. Plus, there are some indications of suicidality, i.e., having suicidal tendencies.
Classifying the Signs: Mental health professionals have created a system for assessing how likely it is that a person will attempt suicide:
Risk Factors: These are the characteristics that make it more likely that an individual will consider, attempt, or commit suicide. Risk factors include alcohol or substance abuse, a previous suicide attempt, and mood disorders. Plus, a person who has access to lethal weapons may be at higher risk.
Warning Signs: There are some factors that exhibit an immediate risk that the person will attempt to take his or her life. Examples include:
- Fascination with death and often talking about it;
- Statements about having no reason to live, wanting to leave troubles behind, or other concerning language
- Self-disparagement
- Increased use or abuse of alcohol or drugs
- Noticeable isolation and withdrawing from loved ones
- Mood swings and angry outbursts
Protective Factors: Some issues that might convince a person to not think about, attempt, or die by suicide. Solid relationships and communication with family, friends, and the community have a positive effect.
Take Action Regarding Your Concerns: There are some tips that may help edge a person away from the risk factors and warning signs, and in the direction of protective factors. CDC recommends:
- Ask if the person is considering suicide. Despite being reluctant to inquire, studies have shown that the conversation is useful
- Reduce or eliminate access to firearms, deadly weapons, or other lethal devices
- Listen to the person and acknowledge their struggles
- Assist an at-risk individual with connecting to appropriate resources, and let them know to dial 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
- Follow up after a crisis to see how the person is coping
Discuss Remedies with Our Florida Preventable Suicide Attorneys
For more information on legal options in these cases, please contact Freidin Brown, P.A. at our offices in Miami or Fort Myers. We are happy to set up a no-cost case review to evaluate your circumstances and determine how to proceed.
Source:
cdc.gov/suicide/facts/index.html
