Every 11 minutes, someone in the U.S. dies by suicide. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide remains one of the leading causes of death in the country, with 49,000 lives lost in 2022 alone.
As part of National Suicide Prevention Month throughout September, Dignity Health - Community Hospital of San Bernardino (CHSB) is committed to raising awareness about suicide’s risk factors and warning signs and sharing actionable steps our community can take to prevent these tragic deaths.
"Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem,” said Dr. Ricardo Whyte, MD, Medical Director of Psychiatric Services at CHSB. “The most effective way to prevent suicide is to recognize the warning signs and know how to respond when you see them.”
Warning signs include withdrawing from friends, experiencing extreme mood swings, changes in eating or sleeping habits, saying goodbye, giving away cherished belongings, making a will or engaging in risky behaviors such as reckless driving.
It's also crucial to understand the high-risk groups and the negative conditions that can contribute to suicidal behavior. Those most at risk include military veterans, individuals over the age of 85, and men, who, while making up 50% of the population, account for nearly 80% of suicides. Factors like racism and discrimination, economic hardship, child abuse, bullying, social isolation, poverty, and barriers to healthcare access also significantly impact suicidal behavior.
If you suspect that a friend or family member is struggling with suicidal thoughts, it's vital to talk to them, listen, and be present to remind them they are not alone. Engaging in open conversations about their feelings can be life-saving.
If you're concerned about their immediate safety, seek help from a mental health professional right away. You can call or text 988 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which offers confidential, 24/7 support to those in crisis or experiencing mental health distress.
"By starting the conversation, offering support, and connecting those in need with the right resources, we can prevent suicides and save lives," added Dr. Whyte. "If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. You are not alone."
About Dignity Health - Community Hospital of San Bernardino
Founded in 1910, Dignity Health - Community Hospital of San Bernardino is a 347-bed, acute care, nonprofit, community hospital located in San Bernardino, California. Known for its programs in maternity care and pediatrics, behavioral health and long-term subacute care for adults and children, the hospital also includes inpatient and outpatient surgery. The hospital shares a legacy of humankindness with Dignity Health, one of the largest health care systems. CHSB has been recognized with the gold seal of approval by the Joint Commission, as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, awarded Healthgrades’ Five Stars for Gallbladder Removal Surgery and Treatment of Diabetic Emergencies, earned Blue Distinction for Maternity Care from Blue Cross/Blue Shield, and rated five stars for Children’s Subacute Center by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Visit dignityhealth.org/chsb for more information.
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