According to Washington State Department of Health, suicide is the second leading cause of death for individuals 10 – 24 years of age and the eighth leading cause of death for all individuals in both Washington State and Spokane County. Among Spokane county residents, each year there is an average of 300 hospitalizations for suicide attempts and 70 completed suicides.
Suicide Prevention advocates report that approximately 80% of people who complete suicide have exhibited warning signs or talked about suicide. By providing current statistics and information about available prevention strategies, Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD) strives to have a positive impact on suicide rates in Spokane County.
SRHD recently transitioned its Suicide Prevention program to a community-shared leadership model, a coalition referred to as Prevent Suicide Spokane. Historically, SRHD was the lead agency for the coalition. During a time of fiscal challenges, SRHD has to examine its programs and services to identify which areas can be sustained by other agencies and groups in the community. Fortunately, there is agency and other support for suicide prevention in Spokane and SRHD can serve as a leader in providing transition from one lead agency to a shared leadership model.
Youth Suicide Fact Sheet (PDF) This is an overview of youth suicide trends and patterns in Spokane County. These data can be used by public health officials, researchers, practitioners, and the public to better understand the burden of youth suicide and the need for effectve prevention efforts.
Spokane County - Suicide Prevention Resources (PDF) Local resources, including counseling, treatment, support services, prevention education, and information about the Spokane County Suicide Prevention Coalition
Elder Depression, What You Need to Know (PDF) Older adults have a 50% higher risk for suicide than young people or the nation as a whole, and white men over the age of 80 are six times more likely to commit suicide than any other demographic group. This brochure discusses depression screening & lists area resources.
Reporting on Suicide: Recommendations for the Media The media can play a powerful role in educating the public about suicide prevention. Stories about suicide can inform, but have the potential to do harm. Following these suggestions when covering suicide can help decrease suicide rates.
Warning signs needing immediate attention:
Additional warning signs:
What to do if a friend or family member displays the warning signs:
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