State health dept. urges awareness, education during National Suicide Prevention Week

[September 12, 2013]  CHICAGO -- Suicide is the 10th-leading cause of death in the United States, and it fluctuates between the second- and third-leading cause of deaths among adolescents in Illinois. However, Illinois Department of Public Health Director LaMar Hasbrouck says that suicide is a preventable public health threat and that greater understanding and assistance is needed for those in crisis.

This week, Sept. 8-14, is the 39th annual National Suicide Prevention Week, and Sept. 10 was World Suicide Prevention Day.

Globally, almost 1 million die from suicide each year -- about one death every 40 seconds. An estimated 5 million living Americans have attempted suicide. In Illinois, suicide is the 11th-leading cause of death overall, and the estimated cost of suicide and medically treated youth suicide attempts in Illinois is $539 million.

"It is essential to bring awareness to the public health threat of suicide. Suicide is preventable," Dr. Hasbrouck said. "It is critical to let those who are in crisis know that they are not alone and that help is available. If you or anyone you know is considering suicide, there are resources available to help. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (800-273-8255)."

Other Illinois suicide statistics include:

• More than 1,000 die by suicide each year -- exceeding the number of deaths by homicide or HIV.

• Thirteen percent of suicide deaths occur among youth ages 15-24.

• Suicide rates are four times higher for males than females.

• Firearm suicide deaths account for 39 percent of suicides.

In 2007, the Department of Public Health released the first Illinois Suicide Prevention Strategic Plan, which included key recommendations to reduce suicide and its stigma through awareness, education and collaborative support efforts with organizations statewide. Since then, IDPH launched the "It Only Takes One" suicide prevention public awareness campaign, and last year received a federal youth suicide prevention grant to administer training to middle schools, high schools and institutions of higher education on how to identify, approach and refer students showing signs of psychological distress.

[Text from Illinois Department of Public Health file received from the Illinois Office of Communication and Information]