Suicide Awareness

So many people are impacted by suicide, and some of us might have had suicidal thoughts or be thinking of it now. And certain conditions, traits or events may increase a person’s risk for suicide. Below are some of the biggest risk factors:¹

• Over 45: Roughly 80% of people who die by suicide are between 45 and 54. Men over 85 are the most at risk of any age group.
• American Indian/Alaskan Native: Young men in these communities are particularly at risk for suicide, due to isolation, stigma and other challenges.
• Having mental health disorders: People who have been diagnosed with a mental health condition, such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia and personality disorders are likely to think about suicide.
• Veterans: Veterans of the military, particularly those who have served in combat, also face an increased risk for suicide.

• Youth experiencing bullying and harassment: Young people who may be exploring and expressing their identity or orientation face unique challenges that can impact their mental health and well-being. Research shows that they are disproportionately affected by bullying, violence, and suicidal thoughts, highlighting the need for supportive and inclusive environments that promote their safety and well-being.
• Young people: Children and young adults between 10 and 24 also face an increased risk for suicide. In fact, suicide is the second leading cause of death for people within this age range.

If they talk about:

• Wanting to die
• Guilt or shame
• Being a burden to others

If they say they feel:

• Empty, hopeless, trapped, or having no reason to live
• Extremely sad, more anxious, agitated, or full of rage
• Unbearable emotional or physical pain

If you see changes in behavior, like:

• Making a plan or researching ways to die
• Withdrawing from friends, saying goodbye, giving away important items, or making a will
• Taking dangerous risks, like driving extremely fast
• Displaying extreme mood swings
• Changes in sleep and eating patterns
• Using drugs or alcohol more often

If you or someone you love has one or more of these warning signs, it’s time to talk with someone and get extra help.²

Important: Make sure to keep guns, as well as potentially lethal drugs and medications, locked up at all times.

Suicide is a tough topic to bring up. But if you’re worried about someone in your life, it could be a life-saving conversation to have. If you don’t know how to start, simply ask the person if they have thought about suicide or are considering it. Listen to what they say, without judgement. Everyone needs a safe space to talk about their feelings.

How can I help prevent suicide?

Everyone can help prevent suicide by learning the warning signs of suicide and how to get help.³

• Ask if they are thinking of hurting themselves.
• Keep them safe. Remove anything that could be used in a suicide attempt, such as weapons, medications, or more.
• Be there for them. Show support and be present. Listen without judgement. Don’t make promises you can’t keep.
• Help them connect. You can start with the 988* Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org). Follow their instructions.
• If the situation is severe, call 911.
• Follow up. Let them know you care and are thinking about them.

Go deeper

Learn more about what you can do to prevent suicide at #BeThe1To. You can also visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Suicide Prevention resources at CDC.gov/suicide.

If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. Trained counselors are available to talk with people who are in serious emotional distress and having suicidal thoughts. When you call or text 988, a counselor will listen to you, offer support, and find available resources to help. If you are worried that you or someone you love is in immediate danger, call 911.

If you aren’t in crisis, but are still struggling with your mental health, reach out to your doctor. Let your doctor know about your mental health and any symptoms you may be experiencing. You and your doctor can work together to develop a treatment plan to help you feel your best. Or your doctor can recommend a therapist or specialist to help. Don’t be scared to bring up your mental health with your doctor. Remember: There is no health without mental health.

You can also turn to our community specialists at our Florida Blue Centers. Our Florida Blue Centers are open to the public. You can ask questions, get help finding a doctor or finding resources in your community whether you are a Florida Blue member or not. Our centers also offer webinars and classes on topics like mental health, at no extra cost. Visit your local center or call 1-877-352-5830, or learn more at floridablue.com/center.

Here are some more resources you can try if you‘re a Florida Blue member:

• meQuilibrium is an online mental well-being program designed to help you face each day with confidence.** By using meQuilibrium, you can build resilience, learn ways to combat stress and cope with anxiety,  improve your sleep, learn tips to help others cope with their mental health, find out your stress score and learn your stress triggers. It is available at no extra cost with most health plans. Look for meQuilibrium in the Find & Get Care section of your member account.
• Or call our care partner, Lucet at 866-287-9569 to locate a licensed therapist that meets your needs. They may also be able to schedule your in-person or virtual visit with a therapist.***

*988 is the call number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, an independent company offering mental health counselling via phone call or text.

**meQuilibrium is an independent company contracted by Florida Blue to provide health and wellness services and resources to members. This benefit is available to Florida Blue members age 18 and older.  Eligibility is limited to members with an individual or family plan, an individual or family ACA plan and members with coverage from their fully insured group employer health plan.

***Florida Blue contracts with Lucet to provide behavioral health services.

¹ SAMHSA. Help Prevent Suicide.

² National Institute of Mental Health. Warning Signs of Suicide.

³ CDC. #BeThere to Help Prevent Suicide.