Breaking the Silence on Suicide: Let’s Start the Conversation
September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time for deep reflection and meaningful action. It reminds us of the tragic loss of lives to suicide, the struggles of those who wrestle with suicidal thoughts, and the significant impact on families and communities. At Glenwood, we’re dedicated to shifting the conversation around suicide, especially in the context of autism and behavioral health.
Understanding the Reality
The numbers around suicide are both alarming and eye-opening. In 2022, nearly 49,000 lives were lost to suicide, which means one person every 11 minutes. On top of that, 13.2 million people had suicidal thoughts, 3.8 million made plans, and 1.6 million attempted to end their lives. These figures highlight the urgent need for effective support and intervention.
A Quick Look at the Stats
From 2000 to 2018, suicide rates increased by 37%. Although there was a slight drop of 5% from 2018 to 2020, rates unfortunately climbed back up to their highest levels in 2022. This shows that while we’ve made some progress, there’s still a lot of work to be done in suicide prevention.
Breaking Down the Stigma
One of the biggest hurdles to preventing suicide is the stigma that surrounds it. Many people suffer in silence because they fear judgment or feel ashamed. National Suicide Prevention Month’s theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” is all about “Starting the Conversation.” By talking openly about the feelings and experiences related to suicide, we can reduce stigma and encourage those who need help to reach out without fear.
Focus on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Suicide and suicidal thoughts are particularly concerning within the autism community. Recent research from the Kennedy Krieger Institute has highlighted a troubling rate of suicidal thoughts among young children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This emphasizes the need for increased awareness and tailored support for those with ASD who may be dealing with these challenging thoughts.
How We Can Help
At Glenwood, we’re all about providing the support and resources that individuals and families affected by autism and behavioral health issues need. We not only offer direct services like therapy and intensive training but also advocate for changes that improve support systems. By creating a caring environment and making resources accessible, we aim to play a key role in preventing suicide. Our Behaviroal Therapy Center is here to help.
Resources and Support
If you or someone you know needs help, there are many resources available. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988) offers 24/7 support for those in crisis.
National Suicide Prevention Month is a chance to honor those we’ve lost, support those who are struggling, and push for change. By opening up the conversation and tackling the stigma around suicidal thoughts, we can build a more compassionate and understanding society. Glenwood is committed to being part of this crucial dialogue and ensuring no one faces these challenges alone.
Together, we can make a difference, one conversation at a time.
For more info on how to support those with autism and behavioral health needs, contact our team at Glenwood’s Behavioral Therapy Center. Let’s work together to change the narrative and bring hope to those who need it most.