Five a day: Suicide in the top 5 leading causes of death in Ohio
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) — September is dedicated to raising awareness about suicide prevention both nationally and globally, fostering essential conversations about mental health.
Statistics on Suicide
According to a February report by the Health Policy Institute of Ohio, approximately five people die by suicide every day. National Suicide Prevention Week runs from September 8-14, with September 10 designated as World Suicide Prevention Day and the entire month recognized as National Suicide Prevention Month.
Understanding the Crisis
Experts emphasize that individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts and survivors need a strong sense of purpose, community, and access to helpful resources. Effective suicide prevention requires addressing complex issues such as mental health, financial wellness, substance abuse, and housing instability.
The Office of the United States Surgeon General has highlighted suicide prevention as a national public health priority since 1999. Despite this, suicide rates in the U.S. increased by more than 30 percent from 1999 to 2018. Although some data suggests a decrease in suicide rates starting in 2019, figures for minority populations and those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic may be underreported due to stigma and various disparities.
Carol Griesdorn, Chair of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) Ohio Chapter, notes the impact of isolation during the pandemic. “My support group during COVID went online and just brought it back in person in January. The numbers have grown,” she said.
This year, the CDC released a 10-year plan aimed at reducing suicide rates by 20 percent by next year.
Who is Affected?
Suicide is a widespread public health issue impacting diverse groups. In Ohio, suicide is a leading cause of death among early adolescents aged 10 to 14, who account for 15% of all suicides. Early intervention is crucial, as 50% of all lifetime mental illnesses begin by age 14 and 75% by age 24, according to NAMI.
Research indicates that adverse childhood experiences, bullying, and violence, compounded by negative social conditions, increase suicide risk. However, the risk extends beyond youth. The National Rural Health Association reports that farmers are 3.5 times more likely to die by suicide than the general population, and rural areas generally experience higher suicide rates than urban areas.
In 2021, Ohio saw 242 veteran suicide deaths. While it is the 13th leading cause of death overall for veterans, it is the second leading cause for those under 45. Additionally, Black, American Indian, and Alaskan Native populations have experienced increases in suicide rates between 2018 and 2021, making them particularly at risk.
Available Resources
Ohio’s 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline has fielded nearly 340,000 contacts in the past two years, serving about three percent of the state’s 11.8 million residents. This lifeline is a crucial resource for connecting individuals in crisis to essential support.
For veterans, calling 988 and pressing 1 connects them to a network of VA-specific staff. “That’s the most critical piece that we want veterans to know,” said Jay Wainscott, Suicide Prevention Program Manager at Dayton VAMC. “Veterans will reach a Veterans’ crisis line coordinator who can connect them to the resources they need.”
After a call to the crisis center, the suicide prevention team at the Dayton VA Medical Center receives referrals and provides follow-up support through a team of highly clinical staff.
Community involvement plays a vital role in suicide prevention. Starting September 29, AFSP will host walks across the country, including an area walk in the Miami Valley on October 13 at Don Crawford Plaza in Dayton. Participants can register online for free.
“People who have lost someone, those supporting people who are struggling, and individuals facing their own struggles can benefit from these events,” Griesdorn said. “It’s an opportunity to gather, ask questions, and connect with community support systems.”
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, do not wait to seek support. Call or text the 988 lifeline, or chat online with trained professionals. ASL and Español services are available.
