As a psychiatrist, I ask about suicidal thoughts in every patient I interview. This can be a difficult subject to talk about for any provider. I have seen an increase in suicides, suicide attempts, and suicidal ideations over the last few years, likely largely due to the numerous ways the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted our society. The loss of life from suicide and the lasting emotional toll loved ones carry are devastating. The month of September is recognized as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. It is a time where suicide awareness and mental health resources are shared publicly to help prevent suicide. I want to use my editorial this month to raise awareness of suicide and available resources with colleagues. This is not an all-inclusive discussion of suicide, but rather a few important points to know.
Suicide affects all age groups, races, ethnicities, and genders. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were nearly 46,000 suicide deaths in 2020 in the nation.1 Also, suicide rates in 2020 were 30% higher than in 2000.1 It is important that health professionals recognize the risk factors for suicide. Many times, patients may see a nurse, social worker, or primary care provider (PCP) before they are ever seen by a psychiatrist. Risk factors for suicide include a previous suicide attempt, history of mental illness, social isolation, and a sense of hopelessness.2
Suicide prevention and protective factors include: screening for mental health and substance use disorders, increased use of mental health services, reducing access to lethal means in those at risk for suicide,2 and strong social supports.2 Many emergency rooms and PCP clinics routinely screen for suicide using the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) as well as other mental health disorders with the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). These screenings give objective numerical scores for patient symptoms and can help determine the need for further evaluation and treatment.
In July 2022, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline created 9-8-8 as an easy way for individuals to connect with professionals during a crisis.3 Anyone can simply call or text 9-8-8 to get in touch with counselors for support. This lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days per week. The old contact (1-800-273-TALK (8255)) is also still available but 9-8-8 is an easier and quicker way to access help.
I encourage all providers to be able to identify risk factors for suicide, discuss suicide prevention and protective factors, and provide the 9-8-8 lifeline to all patients.
Contact Information: jaredtaylormd@gmail.com