Launched in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) with the World Health Organization (WHO) endorsement, World Suicide Prevention Day is recognized annually on September 10th to promote worldwide action to prevent suicide. Experts estimate that nearly 3,000 people a day, or one million per year, die by suicide. The connections between suicide, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders are complex and intertwined.
At Spokane Falls Recovery Center, our highly knowledgeable clinicians understand the relationship between addiction and mental health. We also understand how this combination increases the risk for suicide. As leaders in addiction treatment, we recognize the importance of treating addiction holistically, which is why we have co-occurring capable treatment. Through this treatment, most individuals can achieve the most successful outcomes for recovery. Contact us today at 844.962.2775 to learn how we can help you or a loved one.
The Importance of World Suicide Prevention Day
Suicide is a significant yet preventable contributor to premature death across the world. Depression is the most frequent risk factor for suicidal behavior, followed by the abuse of drugs or alcohol. When a substance use disorder co-occurs with a mental health condition, the risk for suicide increases further. Among the most frequent co-occurring conditions diagnosed with substance use disorders are the following:
- Anxiety disorders
- Depressive disorders
- Bipolar disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Eating disorders
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Trauma
If you’re experiencing one of these conditions alongside a substance use disorder, it’s vital to seek treatment as soon as possible.
World Suicide Prevention Day Activities
The same psychosocial, cultural, biological, and environmental risk factors contributing to addiction and mental health conditions lead to an increased risk for suicide. Strong evidence suggests that public education, information, and awareness are crucial to encouraging positive action. Through education, we can reduce the stigmas associated with addiction, mental health, and suicide, leading to a reduction in the rates of suicide. As such, World Suicide Prevention Day activities include:
- Conferences, educational seminars, and public lectures
- Training courses about depression and suicide awareness
- Media programs to promote suicide awareness and prevention
- Implementation of government initiatives for suicide prevention
- Memorial services, ceremonies, and cultural events that encourage awareness
Individuals from all over the world can light a candle at 8:00 pm on September 10th to demonstrate support for suicide prevention. This action can also honor a loved one lost to suicide and champion suicide survivors.
Treating Co-Occurring Disorders to Help Prevent Suicide
The relationship between addiction and mental health is a complicated cycle that feeds on itself. Sometimes addiction can lead to mental health conditions. Mental health conditions often lead to substance abuse or addiction when individuals turn to drugs and alcohol to self-medicate. Either way, when co-occurring disorders are left untreated, the results can be fatal. Nearly half of individuals seeking treatment for substance use disorders report attempting suicide at least once in their lifetime.
While most individuals who suffer from co-occurring disorders will not die by suicide, nearly all who die by suicide have a mental health disorder, substance use disorder, or both. Because there is a significant overlap in the symptoms of addiction and mental health conditions, it can be difficult to distinguish between them, especially when they are co-occurring. Following are some common signs and symptoms associated with co-occurring disorders:
- Severe mood swings
- Increased irritability
- Reduced ability to manage daily tasks and responsibilities
- Difficulty making decisions or inability to think clearly
- Avoiding friends, family, and social situations
- Engaging in risk-taking behaviors
- Thoughts of suicide or suicide attempts
Critical components of suicide prevention are a sense of safety, feeling supported, and having significant connections with others. At Spokane Falls Recovery Center, individuals receiving services have access to a wide range of therapies and techniques that encourage fellowship, address maladaptive behaviors, and prevent suicidal ideation.
Contact Spokane Falls Recovery Center Today
Spokane Falls Recovery Center provides evidence-based, individualized, and holistic treatment for substance use disorders. We have programs in place to aid in suicide prevention, and our clinicians provide comprehensive care that includes support and encouragement for individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts. Help is available today. Contact us at 844.962.2775 to find out how we can help you reclaim your life.
