Suicide Prevention & Risk Factors
Statistics about suicide from the Washington State Department of Health

• Suicide is the second leading cause of death in Washington State for youth 10- 24 years old and the third leading cause of death nationwide

• There were nearly twice as many suicides as homicides of youth ages 10-24.

• In Washington State and nationally, females attempted suicide more frequently, and males died by suicide more often by a ratio of at least 4:1.

• In Washington State, firearms were the leading method of suicide for both males and females.

• Spokane suicide rates are two times the state rate in Washington.

• Among Spokane county residents, each year there is an average of 300 hospitalizations for suicide attempts and 70 completed suicides

Suicide Risk Factors

• Mental illness including depression, conduct disorders, and substance abuse

• Family stress/ dysfunction

• Environmental risks

• Situational crises (death of a loved one, abuse, violence, etc.)

Suicide Warning Signs

• Unable to focus or think clearly

• Withdrawal from friends or family

• Changes in appearance and personality

• Feelings of depression, loneliness, or isolation

• Talking about being a burden to others

• Wanting to escape a painful or difficult situation

• Suicidal threats in the form of direct and indirect statements

• Increased use of drug and/or alcohol

• Suicide notes and plans

• Making final arrangements (writing a will, giving away prized possessions)

• Preoccupation with death

• Can’t see a way out (hopelessness)

What to Do

• Remain calm

• Ask youth directly if he or she is thinking about suicide

• Focus on your concern for their wellbeing and avoid being accusatory

• Listen without judgement

• Reassure them that there is help and they will not feel like this forever

• Provide constant supervision. Do not leave the youth alone

• Remove means for self-harm

• Get help! (Seek help from school or community mental health resources as soon as possible)

Resiliency Factors

• Family support and cohesion, including good communication

• Peer support and close social networks

• School and community connectedness

• Cultural or religious beliefs

• Adaptive coping and problem-solving skills, including conflict resolution

• General life satisfaction, good self-esteem, sense of purpose

• Easy access to effective medical and mental health resources