Suicide is a world-wide problem

The week of September 4 is Suicide Prevention week, culminating in World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10. Suicide claims approximately 1 million lives worldwide each year, or one suicide every 40 seconds. In the United States, suicide is the 11th leading cause of death. Among the states, New York and New Jersey have the lowest suicide rate, 6.4 per 100,000. Wyoming has the highest state rate, 21.1% per 100,000. The suicide rate in this country is the highest for those over 65 than for any other age group. The elderly make up 12.3 percent of the population, but 17.5 percent of all suicides. Suicide is the third leading cause of death among 15- to 24-year-olds, ranking behind only accidents and homicides. People considering suicide may exhibit or express the following warning signs: • Hopelessness, feeling that there is no reason to go on living or no purpose in life. • Rage, uncontrolled anger or seeking revenge. • Acting recklessly or engaging in risky activities, seemingly without thinking. • Feeling trapped with no way out. • Increased use of alcohol or drugs. • Withdrawal from friends, family and society. • Anxiety, agitation, unable to sleep or sleeping too much. • Dramatic mood changes. For more information, call the American Association of Suicidolgy at 800-273-TALK (8255) or visit www.suicidology.org.