The CDC defines suicide as someone who directs violence at oneself with the intent to end their life, and they die as a result of that action. Approximately 75 Oregon youths die by suicide each year, making it the second leading cause of death among those aged 10-24 years. Over 750 suicide attempts are reported each year. https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/suicide/index.html

Risk Factors

Factors associated with an increased risk of suicide among youth include:

• prior attempts
• depression
• family discord
• substance abuse
• relationship problems
• discipline or legal problems
• access to firearms

5 Action Steps for Helping Someone in Emotional Pain

1. Ask: “Are you thinking about killing yourself?” It’s not an easy question but studies show that asking at-risk individuals  if they are suicidal does not increase suicides or suicidal thoughts.
2. Keep them safe: Reducing a suicidal person’s access to highly lethal items or places is an important part of suicide prevention. While this is not always easy, asking if the at-risk person has a plan and removing or disabling the lethal means  can make a difference.
3. Be there: Listen carefully and learn what the individual is thinking and feeling. Providing solutions or answers is less important than offering unconditional support. Findings suggest acknowledging and talking about suicide may in fact reduce rather than increase  suicidal thoughts.
4. Help them connect: Save the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s number in your phone so it’s there when you need it: 1-800-273-8255(TALK). You can also help make a connection with a trusted individual like a family member, friend, spiritual advisor, or mental health professional.
5. Stay Connected: Staying in touch after a crisis or after being discharged from care can make a difference. Studies have shown  the number of suicide deaths goes down when someone follows up with the at-risk person.

Crisis Lines

YOUTHLINE: Crisis line staffed by and for teens  877-968-8491  or text "teen2teen" to 839863

Suicide Prevention Lifeline:  1-800-273-TALK(8255)  

Ayuda en Español: 1-888-628-9454

Yamhill County Crisis Line:   503-434-7523 (during business hours)   1-844-842-8200 (24 hours)

Resources

For more information on youth suicide prevention, please see the resources below