If you or someone you know may be considering suicide, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (en español: 1-888-628-9454; deaf and hard of hearing: dial 711, then 1-800-273-8255) or the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.
According to the American Psychiatric Association, suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States and the second leading cause of death (after accidents) for people aged 10 to 34. And according the CDC, published reports from 2020 suggest that the pandemic has had a negative effect on children’s mental health.
“Beginning in April 2020, the proportion of children’s mental health–related ED visits among all pediatric ED visits increased and remained elevated through October. Compared with 2019, the proportion of mental health–related visits for children aged 5–11 and 12–17 years increased approximately 24%. and 31%, respectively.”
Researchers have yet to link recent suicides to the pandemic since 2020 suicide data is not yet available. But on the ground, there's growing concern.
The February 2021 NPR article “Child Psychiatrists Warn That The Pandemic May Be Driving Up Kids' Suicide Risk” explores possible correlation. Takeaways include:
For ways to help kids at risk, NPR encourages readers to read Part 2 of their story, “Make Space, Listen, Offer Hope: How To Help A Child At Risk Of Suicide”.
Suicide Prevention Resources
Survivors of Suicide – What to Do Next
The loss of a loved one by suicide can be a deeply painful and traumatizing experience; however, it’s important to know that everyone experiences suicide loss in their own way. As you begin the process of healing, consider reading the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s guide for to talk to others about what happened and identify ways to take care of yourself.
Additionally, if you have lost someone to suicide, there may be a cleanup required. There is no need for family or friends of the loved one to be further traumatized or overwhelmed with trying to figure out how to clean the impacted area. Bio-One is here for you. Learn more about Bio-One’s suicide remediation services.
If you or someone you know may be considering suicide, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (en español: 1-888-628-9454; deaf and hard of hearing: dial 711, then 1-800-273-8255) or the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.
Suicide effects people of all ages and doesn't always mean someone is mentally ill.
Look for warning signs. People who consider suicide as an option often talk about feeling hopeless or lost. Sometimes they try to organize their life as if they are creating a will by giving others their belongings or saying goodbye. They can experience strong self-hatred and be withdrawn from social interactions.
If you know someone displaying more than one of these signs, take the time to help. Sit down and talk to them about what's going on. Advocate for professional help if needed.
National Suicide Prevention: 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255)
If you know of someone in need of our services, please take a look at our locations to find the nearest Bio-One office near you. Stay safe!
Although you can't always tell if someone is suicidal, there maybe some signs you can learn to recognize especially if you notice more than one.
Warning Signs
If you or someone you know display one or more of these warning signs, take the time to talk and evaluate. It's worth it. If it's an emergency, call the National Suicide Hotline 1-800-273-8255
When a suicide occurs, it affects more than just the family. While the family is feeling it the most, a suicide can actually trickle out to the entire community.
Friends and loved ones are hit hard. Co-workers, caregivers and teachers can be in the next level of those affected. Some people may not have had the same amount of interaction, but these people may feel a sadness or loss that is stronger than we might expect. The truth is, when someone is lost through suicide, it creates a wave that has a far and powerful reach among the community.
You may not always be able to know who is suicidal, but you can be kind and know that everyone is fighting battles you can't see.
If you or someone you know might need a support group, please find the link below that best suits your needs.
Save - Suicide Awareness Voices of Education
Alliance of Hope - for suicide loss survivors
AAS - for suicide loss survivors
If you find yourself looking at a crime scene, your initial reaction may be to clean it yourself. You may want it to be gone as soon as possible and that's completely understandable. Here's some reasons why you shouldn't do that.
1. Fluids! Coming into contact with bodily fluids, especially blood, can be harmful. It can carry disease and pathogens that you just don't want on or near your body!
2. Invisible to the eye! If you don't take care of all of it, you can still recieve harmful effects. This means if you try and clean it and leave behind any traces of the scene (even germs and pathogens you can't see), your home won't be as sanitary as you think it is. You know how they say won't you don't know won't hurt you? Well in this case, it can.
3. Don't stress! While you may be worried that you can't afford crime scene cleaners, your insurance will usually take care of it! Don't let this detail keep you from getting the professionals in the door!
Never try to clean a crime scene yourself! You'll be happier, more sanitary, and less stressed when you let the professionals come take care of it. View our Bio-One locations if you need help.
Many people think suicide rates increase during the winter holidays. This still happens, however, CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics reports that the suicide rate is, in fact, the lowest in December. The rate peaks in the spring and the fall. While there are varying factors for why this happens, what we need to focus on is keeping in contact with our loved ones and those around us. If someone is acting in an unusal manner, check in with them. See if there is something going on that you might be able to help with. A lot of times people struggle with self love or self help and they just need someone to show they care.
If you are feeling depressed yourself, start making note of what's going on emotionally. Write down how you feel that day and what is causing your mood to change up or down. Keep track of changes in feelings and thought patterns. Perhaps you're lashing out at people more or feeling unusually overwhelmed and you can't figure out why. If these things continue to happen, talk to a friend or specialist. There may be an underlying issue that you can work out easily or that might need more support. There is always a way to fix it, you're not alone.
If you feel the need, contact the National Suicide Prevention Line 24/7
If you know of someone in need of our services, please take a look at our locations to find the nearest Bio-One office near you. Stay safe!
