While the reasons a person may experience thoughts of suicide are complex and varied, suicidal thoughts indicate that a person is in need of support and resources for what they are experiencing. It could be related to depression, the loss of a friend, loss of a job, divorce, affair, or any number of events that may be disrupting their life. Many may or may not be receiving help for a mental or emotional disorder.
No matter the “why,” it is important to remember that suicide is preventable. When linked with support, the vast majority of people who experience thoughts of suicide go on to live fulfilling lives. Suicide is not inevitable. Help works. And remember, talking with someone about suicide in a gentle and caring manner does not make someone suicidal.
Suicide thoughts, attempts and completion affect many Iowans. Suicide does not discriminate, and can affect anyone. In 2015, suicide was the 10th leading cause of death for all Iowans
Suicide disproportionately affects some age groups. In 2018, suicide was the second leading cause of death for Iowans ages 15-44, third leading cause of death for Iowans ages 5-14, and fifth leading cause of death for Iowans ages 45-54.
Approximately 47,511 Americans die by suicide every year, an average of one person every 11.1 minutes.
Four times as many men kill themselves as women, although three times as many women attempt suicide.
In Iowa, suicide was the eighth leading cause of death for men.
Firearms are the most used method of suicide.
Surviving family members and friends are at a higher risk for suicide and emotional problems.
Talking about suicide may feel difficult or scary, but it's always okay to talk about. Asking someone if they are thinking about suicide will not increase suicide risk. If you're nervous or unsure, we can help you have that conversation with a loved one.
Can suicide be prevented?
The causes of suicide deaths are complex, but many things can help prevent them. Getting someone who may be considering suicide the appropriate care can be life-saving.
Your Life Iowa can help.
How does the media play a role in suicide deaths?
Suicide contagion is a real phenomenon. Exposure to suicidal behavior increases suicidal behavior for people at risk for suicide. This is especially true for young people.
Report and talk about suicides in a respectful and appropriate manner. This can limit the risk of suicide.
Inform the audience of the suicide event facts without sensationalism.
Avoid details of the manner of death.
When reporting about a person who died from suicide, use pictures from school or a job.
Avoid describing suicide with strong descriptive language such as "epidemic" or "drastic increase." Instead use words such as "rise" or "higher."
Most people show warning signs — deaths by suicide are not inexplicable.
Suicide is a public health issue. Seek the input of suicide prevention experts when reporting. Include local crisis service logos and phone numbers in the article.
Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Free, 24/7 confidential support for people in distress, prevention crisis and resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.
Foundation 2 Crisis Services Foundation 2 Crisis Services provides 24/7, free crisis intervention and prevention services across Iowa.
HelpGuide: Suicide Prevention website HelpGuide website with suicide prevention resources, warning signs, coping tips, bipolar and PTSD resources, and more.
How do I help a friend or family member concerning thoughts of suicide?
American Academy of Suicidology website Association of mental health professionals working to promote the understanding and prevention of suicide and support those affected by it.
Where can I find Native American resources?
Heart of the Land | Prevent Suicide SAMHSA video about how suicide impacts young men living in Alaska, including the Inupiaq, Tlingit, Tshimshian, Unangan, Athabascan, Aleut and Yupik Tribes.
Seven Generations | Prevent Suicide SAMHSA video about how suicide impacts young men living in Alaska, including the Blackfeet, Chippewa Chee, Gros Ventre/A'aninin, Salish/Pend Orielle, and Kootenai/Wanapum Tribes.
Where can I find LGBTQ+ and ally resources?
Trans Lifeline organization Phone line and nonprofit organization offering emotional and financial support to trans people in crisis – for the trans community, by the trans community. English and Spanish call line available.
The Trevor Project organization The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people under 25.
A Manager’s Guide to Suicide Postvention in the Workplace PDF outlining steps to take for dealing with the aftermath of a suicide. Produced by the Workplace Postvention Task Force of the American Association of Suicidology and the Workplace Taskforce of the National Alliance for Suicide Prevention.
Law Enforcement & Prevention (SPRC) Suicide Prevention Resource Center is a resource for how law enforcement can contribute to suicide prevention.
Foundation 2 Crisis Services support groups Foundation 2 Crisis Services offers a free suicide survivors' support group in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. In-person and virtual options are available.
How should I write about suicide in the news?
AFSP resources for journalists Video and text resources on reporting on suicide including statistics and guidance for reporting safely and accurately about suicide.
If you think you or a loved one may have a problem with alcohol use, drug use, gambling, or their mental health, reach out to Your Life Iowa for free, confidential support.
