Army leaders at all levels are helping Soldiers and their Families prevent suicides, and Kirk U.S. Army Health Clinic and Aberdeen Proving Ground are taking action during National Suicide Prevention Week and all year round.
Suicide is a major, preventable public health problem in the United States. In 2004, suicide was the 11th leading cause of death in the United States accounting for more than 32,000 deaths. Among persons 10 to 24 years of age, suicide is the third leading cause of death in the United States.
The military represents a segment of the U.S. population; therefore, suicide does occur.
In 2007, there were 108 suicides and 166 suicide attempts in Iraq and Afghanistan.
While each person is unique, there are several commonalities. While anyone can be at risk, suicide was more common among young, Caucasian, unmarried, junior enlisted Soldiers.
Firearms were the most common method for completed suicide. Overdoses and 'cutting' were the most common methods for suicide attempts. Thirty percent of people reportedly used drugs and/or alcohol during their attempts making use of these substances a risk factor. Fifty percent of Soldiers who completed or attempted suicide had a recent failed intimate relationship.
This year, at APG, one Soldier committed suicide and there were 15 suicide attempts. This significantly affects individuals, Families and the military in profound ways.
Those who know the individual may experience confusion, shame, guilt, anger, blame or other emotions.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, risk factors for suicide include:
Depression and other mental disorders, or a substance-abuse disorder (often in combination with other mental disorders). More than 90 percent of people who die by suicide have these risk factors.
Stressful life events, in combination with other risk factors, such as depression. However, suicide and suicidal behavior are not normal responses to stress; many people have these risk factors, but are not suicidal:
- Prior suicide attempt.
- Family history of mental disorder, substance abuse or suicide.
- Family violence, including physical or sexual abuse.
- Firearms in the home--the method used in more than half of suicides.
- Incarceration (For Soldiers, this may include Soldiers undergoing investigation or UCMJ action).
- Exposure to the suicidal behavior of others, such as Family members, peers or media figures.
Research also shows that the risk for suicide is associated with changes in brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, including serotonin. Decreased levels of serotonin have been found in people with depression, impulsive disorders, a history of suicide attempts and in the brains of suicide victims. Physicians can prescribe medications that may help.
"If you think, or are told, that someone may be suicidal, do not leave him or her alone," said Joseph C. O'Rourke, KUSAHC Behavior Health. "Notify someone (such as your command) immediately. Try to get the person help immediately at the nearest mental health provider, hospital emergency department, or call emergency services, 911.
"Before professional help arrives, eliminate access to firearms, alcohol, drugs or other potential tools for suicide. During normal duty hours, contact KUSAHC Behavioral Health, 410-278-1715; during non-duty hours, dial 9-1-1 and request an ambulance to transport the Soldier to the nearest Emergency Department," he said.
Anyone with questions or concerns regarding suicide or other mental health issues should call O'Rourke, 410-278-1755.
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