- Adult blacks are 20 percent more likely to report serious psychological distress than adult whites.
- Adult blacks living below poverty are two to three times more likely to report serious psychological distress than those living above poverty.
- Adult blacks are more likely to have feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness than are adult whites.
- And while blacks are less likely than whites to die from suicide as teenagers, black teenagers are more likely to attempt suicide than are white teenagers (8.2 percent v. 6.3 percent)
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention states that people who kill themselves exhibit one or more warning signs, either through what they say or what they do. The more warning signs, the greater the risk. Here is their list of what to look and listen for:
Talk
If a person talks about:
- Killing themselves.
- Having no reason to live.
- Being a burden to others.
- Feeling trapped.
- Unbearable pain.
Behavior
A person’s suicide risk is greater if a behavior is new or has increased, especially if it’s related to a painful event, loss, or change.
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs.
- Looking for a way to kill themselves, such as searching online for materials or means.
- Acting recklessly.
- Withdrawing from activities.
- Isolating from family and friends.
- Sleeping too much or too little.
- Visiting or calling people to say goodbye.
- Giving away prized possessions.
- Aggression.
Mood
People who are considering suicide often display one or more of the following moods.
- Depression.
- Loss of interest.
- Rage.
- Irritability.
- Humiliation.
- Anxiety.
Ending Mental Health Stigma
Culturally, we are accustomed to handling pain and trauma and “getting through it.” We’re more likely to say, “I”m tired,” than to say “I’m depressed,” or to turn to prayer before counseling. Learning to be more transparent and vulnerable about how we feel is part of what’s necessary to heal as a community and break down mental health stigmas. “It’s helpful to say that, ‘My spirit is low today,’ because then that gives another person permission to say that they’re feeling that way as well,” said Williams.
Self care IS health care. How transparent will YOU be today?
If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, or are concerned about the life of another, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1 (800) 273-8255.
Styles P Opens Up About Daughter’s Suicide & The True Value Of Life was originally published on blackdoctor.org
