Suicide is a preventable mental health crisis. As of 2022, Kansas ranked 17th in the nation for suicides. It was also the second leading cause of death for ages 10-44. And sadly overall, it is the 10th leading cause of death in our state. Every person knows someone that has either attempted or competed a suicide. With work to destigmatize mental health problems surrounding suicide, we can make inroads to reduce both attempted and completed suicides.
Knowing the signs someone is struggling is an important first step. On many occasions, a change in behavior or lack of interest in things they normally enjoy are key indicators. Someone who is struggling may also be anxious or worried. They may mention that they are unhappy or seem quieter or more withdrawn than normal. They may be sleeping more than normal, or are having issues with sleep. They may talk about wanting to die or that life would be better off without them. They may be giving personal items away, and expressing wanting it all to end. These are all major indicators that a person may be suicidal and may need immediate help.
Whether this is for you, or for someone you know, remembering ways to get help are so important. Asking a friend or loved one about suicide will NOT put the thought into their head or increase their risk of dying by suicide. If you or someone you know has mentioned or is experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors and need assistance, please call the National Crisis and Suicide Hotline at 988. You can use this number to call (or text) and the hotline is staffed 24/7. You or your loved ones do not have to be actively suicidal to call or text this number. But, if you are in a mental health crisis and in of need of assistance, the hotline is definitely there for you.
Everyone has an opportunity to help prevent suicide. If interested in suicide prevention training opportunities, such as Question, Persuade, Refer: Suicide Prevention (QPR) or Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), please contact me at 620-793-1910, or by email at aboor@ksu.edu and I can help you get trainings set up.
National Resources
• https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
• https://www.samhsa.gov/childrens-awareness-day/past-events/2019/resources-suicide-prevention
State Resources
• https://www.sprc.org/states/kansas
Local Resources
• High Plains Mental Health Center. https://hpmhc.com/
• The Center for Counseling and Consultation. 24/7 Crisis line –620-792-2544 or 800-875-8544
Alicia Boor is the Agriculture and Natural Resources agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. Contact her by email at aboor@ksu.edu or call 620-793-1910.
