Suicide Prevention - All About Seniors

By Andrew WeemsSuicide remains a leading, preventable cause of death among U.S.Veterans.Veteran suicide is at an all-time highthe most recent numbers showing 17.6 Veterans a day succumbing to suicide.

Statistically speaking, a Veteran, many of whom are trained in firearms, is more likely to use a gun as their method of attempting suicide.This is tragic because 95% of individuals who use a firearm are successful in their suicide attempt.All other meanschemical, suffocation, or other methodsare only 5% successful per attempt.One misconception about suicide is that if someone is having a crisis or expressing suicidal thoughts, they will remain actively suicidal from that point on.

Most crisis episodes last from minutes to hours.When not addressed, a momentary crisis can turn into an irreversible tragedy.Simply being with the individualsitting with them, talking, and especially listeningcan help them through this momentary crisis.

Working with them to seek help is essential not only for navigating the current storm but also for long-term safety.The most immediate path is to get them to an Emergency Department or ER.You can also contact anyone trained in suicide prevention or call 988 and press option 1.This hotline connects you with trained counselors who can provide emotional support, crisis de-escalation, and connections to local community resources without relying on law enforcement or emergency medical intervention unless necessary.

Let the individual talk to someone on that line, and stay with them until they get help, the episode subsides, or someone else can stay with them.Another way to help reduce suicide risk is to mitigate or remove the method that might be used.Because three-quarters of Veteran suicides involve guns, strategies that increase time and distance between a person in crisis and a firearm can save lives.If firearms are present, work to get them removed from the residence or living space.

Dont just remove the ammunitionmove the firearms to a trusted friend or relatives home for safekeeping.If their planned method involves pills, remove any medication that could be used to harm themselves (but do not remove lifesaving medications).Most individuals experiencing suicidal ideation who have a plan will not simply choose another method if their chosen one is not accessible.

This pause can be lifesaving.Another important means of prevention is open discussion.Pastors and small groups can address this topic through sermons, discussions, and Bible studies.Counselors can start conversations in schools.

Family members can open discussions at home.The old idea that if you ignore it, it will go away is not true.Awareness helps us recognize warning signs and empowers us to intervene.When someone says things like, I just wish I were not here anymore, The world would be a better place without me, or I just hope I dont wake up, you need to ask the direct question: Have you wished you were dead or wished you could go to sleep and not wake up over the past month? Have you thought about killing yourself? If they answer yes, follow up with, How might you do this? Have you worked out a plan or details? What are the details?Responding with disapproval (Dont say that) doesnt make the thoughts go away.

It may signal that youre not open to listening, causing them to hide their thoughts.Talking about suicide does not make someone more likely to attempt it.Silence, however, can prevent them from getting the help that might save their life.Suicide can affect anyone: teenagers, young adults, those losing a job, individuals struggling with stress or PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), people going through divorce, or the elderly.

Veterans are not the only individuals affected by PTSD.Life-altering experiencescombat or notcan have profound emotional impact.Anyone feeling like a failure or questioning their purpose is at risk.Remember: if someone expresses suicidal thoughts, listen to them, stay with them, and help them get to the Emergency Department, trained help, or call 988 while you are still with them.

If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.Prevention starts with being open, available, aware, and active in helping them receive care.Statistics come from the 2024 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report.