Suicide is a concerning public health issue that leaves a long-lasting impact on families and communities. Between 1999 and 2019, the suicide death rate in the U.S. increased by 33%.
According to recent data, there were nearly 46,000 deaths by suicide in 2020 (approx. 126 per day), making it the 12th-leading cause of death in the United States. In Iowa, it is the 9th leading cause of death. Suicide rates vary across a variety of demographics. For example, in 2020, men died by suicide 3.88x more than women. White males accounted for 69.68% of suicide deaths in 2020. Suicide rates are higher among LGBTQ youth and adults compared with straight/cis adults. Yet, 93% of adults surveyed in the U.S. think suicide can be prevented.
Since 2008, September has been recognized as National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. This is a time to acknowledge those impacted by suicide, raise awareness, and connect individuals with suicidal ideation to resources and treatment services. This is also a sensible time to openly discuss mental health and help reduce lingering stigmas.
One of the more recent resources at our disposal is a new crisis hotline number. On July 16, 2022, Iowa rolled out a three-digit number—988—for people to call or text to reach a trained counselor who can help them deal with suicidal thoughts and mental health crises. The new 988 number does not summon law enforcement. For more information, visit: https://988lifeline.org/.
A wonderful training opportunity at Drake will take place later this month. Please consider attending QPR training on September 21 (1-2 pm), offered through Drake HR’s BUILD program. QPR stands for Question, Persuade, and Refer—the 3 simple steps anyone can learn to help save a life from suicide. This training is being presented by Kayla Bell-Consolver, Director, Student Counseling Center and Dr. Greg Lengel, Associate Professor of Psychology. Class size is limited to learn more access the fall BUILD schedule here. You can RSVP with Linda Feiden (linda.feiden@drake.edu).
— Maureen De Armond, Human Resources