Suicide Help and Prevention

It is not uncommon to experience periods of sadness, anxiety, and anguish, especially in reaction to rejection, failure, death, or other loss, such as a breakup. Some people experience extreme reactions to these situations that leave them feeling hopeless, alone, and lost. These feelings can sometimes lead one to think that the best, or only, relief from there suffering is death. 

Suicide is a serious health concern that affects thousands of individuals each year, including children and teens. Suicide is the third leading cause of death in youth ages 10 to 24. These deaths are only a portion of the issue as many more young people survive suicide attempts than die. According to the Center for Disease Control, 16% of youth in grade 9-12 reported seriously considering suicide, 13% reported creating a plan, and 8% reporting trying to take their own lives in the 12 months preceding the nationwide survey.

If you are thinking about suicide, it is important to know you are not alone. Help is available.

Understanding risk factors and warning signs, as well as ways to help someone who is thinking about suicide, can all help decrease these occurrences. Understanding how mental illness plays a role in suicide and knowing about available resources is also crucial in the fight against suicide. 

Talking About Suicide

For many, suicide is an uncomfortable topic that is often avoided. This closed dialog often leads to misconceptions and stigmas around suicide. It also limits the amount of information available to those at risk and those hoping to prevent suicide.

Over the last several decades, more information has become available about the causes of suicide and preventative strategies. Orchard Place is working in conjunction with organizations throughout Iowa and the United States to help increase this dialog and prevent suicide, particularly in youth and teens. If you are interested in learning more about suicide and programs available to prevent suicide, please do not hesitate to contact Orchard Place by calling (515) 246-3514 or filling out this form.

If you are unable to keep yourself safe, do not wait - go directly to the nearest emergency room or call 9-1-1.