It is never easy to talk about suicide. The words seem inadequate, invasive or inappropriate. The fact is that suicide is a health crisis in this country, the 11th leading cause of death in the US. The reality is that we will likely meet or know someone in our lives who will either take their own lives, try to take their own lives or consider taking their own lives. At Marblehead Counseling Center, we work with individuals who are in the midst of this struggle, but as a community of caring people, we all need to consider how best to recognize the warning signs. Thankfully, there are a growing number of suicide-and-prevention programs and emergency services that can help.
Is suicide seasonal?
It’s the start of a new year, and many of us have begun working towards goals for 2026. However, reflecting on things we might improve on can be painful, reminding us of past failures and losses and adding pressure to make a ‘new start.’ Though suicide rates are not traditionally as high in the winter as in late spring and summer, there is a slight rebound in January compared to December, which has the lowest suicide rates of the year. For some, Seasonal Affective Disorder can bring on depression and feelings of isolation; others feel trapped by wintry, icy conditions. The joy of interacting with family and friends during the holidays can lead to post-holiday blues and loneliness. Non-holiday stressors return, and many experience an increase in monetary worries after the holiday. Although January does not have record suicide numbers, there are specific factors that put added stress on people at this time of year.
Common mental health risk factors
People contemplate suicide for many complex reasons. Mental health professionals look for a number of ‘red flags’ for people considering suicide, including the loss of a loved one, a relationship or a job. A person who feels isolated and alone, or who sees their current situation as hopeless might become suicidal, as may those who lack social support. Barriers to mental health treatment can be a risk factor. A history of mental health problems, or a family history of child maltreatment or neglect, traumatic experiences, such as witnessing or experiencing violence or a family history of suicide are all factors.
For numerous people there is still a stigma associated with seeking help, and this seems to be particularly true for many men. Even time of day can be a risk factor, with a recent analysis of 15 years worth of suicide data suggesting there is a five-fold greater risk of suicide between 2 a.m. and 3 am. Additionally, it can’t be emphasized enough that access to ‘lethal means’, such as guns and pills, are a huge risk factor. More than half of suicides use firearms to take their own lives.
Critical warning signs
People who are at risk of suicide may show signs that they are thinking about or planning an attempt. These are known as warning signs of suicide. They include expressions of unbearable pain or hopelessness, a fascination with death and the belief they are a burden to others. Noticeable changes in behavior, including recent suicide attempts; losing interest in family, friends and favorite activities; saying goodbye to loved ones; giving away prized possessions; or changes in hygiene, eating or sleeping patterns can signify that a person is considering suicide. Talking about immediate harm to oneself or others, searching online for information about suicide or acting in such an erratic manner that you have concerns about their safety, as well as
violence or rage-filled reactions are also red flags.
The warning signs of suicide above may indicate an emergency is happening or that a person is in crisis. If you observe these behaviors, you should immediately connect the person with professional help, such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, emergency medical services or a mental health professional.
Taking steps to prevent suicide: Only connect
Absent an immediate crisis, are there steps that can be taken to help prevent suicide?
Mental health access is critical, particularly for those who are dealing with trauma or a history of mental health problems. There are many wonderful resources available in Massachusetts, including the Mass Behavioral Health Help Line, which helps people connect with mental health services and providers throughout the state. There are also programs for specific at-risk populations, for example, the MassMen initiative works with men across the state on issues of mental health and well being, and the National Alliance on Mental Health Massachusetts website features help for kids and teens.
The intervention model at MCC tries to address the common mental health risks that can turn into a mental health crisis. MCC has both a therapeutic and social services arm. Consequently, an older client who is in danger of becoming un-housed, or a client needing a drug or alcohol program referral can find assistance through our social services unit.
Telehealth online therapy, which we and many other therapeutic centers now offer, brings professional counseling to those who might otherwise be unable to get help from mental health professionals. Access to professional help and assistance with life struggles are critical in mitigating suicide.
According to Dr. John Draper, founding director of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988), there are ‘three Cs’ of suicide prevention: connection, collaboration and choice. Connection helps the person struggling to feel understood and not isolated.
Collaboration involves working together to identify potential solutions to their concerns or needs. And choice involves empowering the individual in the decision-making process for their care and recovery.
In a mental health crisis, trained professionals are essential. But there are many ways that our community might work to strengthen our connections with those who are struggling.
Suicide by the numbers:
From The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2023):
- Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the U.S.
- 49,316 Americans died by suicide in 2023.
- 1.5 million attempted suicide.
- 658 Massachusetts residents died by suicide.
- Firearms were used in 55% of suicides.
- Men died by suicide 3.8 times more often than women.
- Adults aged 85 and older had the highest suicide rate.
- About one in 10 youth in grades 9-12 attempted suicide at least once in 2023, with female students attempting to kill themselves at a rate more than double their male counterparts (Youth Risk Behaviors Survey of 2023),
Gregg Mulford, LMHC clinical supervisor, has been a social worker for 35 years, the last three of which have been counseling individuals, families and couples at Marblehead Counseling Center. He is a generalist who works with all populations, on a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, substance use, OCD, agoraphobia and bipolar disorder.
Editor Leigh Blander is an experienced TV, radio and print journalist.
