When a brick is knocked loose—then another—in the mind of a potential suicide victim, their world begins to fall apart. Reconstructing the damage becomes painful and increasingly difficult by the day, and sometimes impossible for those who see no light at the end of the tunnel. As the tunnel grows darker and gloomier, the inconsolable may feel an overwhelming urge to end their lives.

In some cases, the warning signs are clear. If a student seems withdrawn, depressed, or unable to engage in classroom activities, a teacher might notice troubling changes and refer them to the Counseling Department. Similarly, if an employee notices a sudden change in a coworker’s behavior or attitude, they might alert a supervisor who can recommend intervention. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Many who die by suicide have learned to mask their emotions, and their deaths come as a shock to those around them.

In fact, studies show that more than half of people who die by suicide do not have a diagnosed mental health condition at the time of their death. A clinical diagnosis is not always accessible, and many victims remain undiagnosed. The despair that drives people to take their own lives may persist for days, months, or even years. Yet in the aftermath, we are left asking the same haunting question—“why?”—a question we may never find an answer to. It is therefore essential to recognize the seriousness of the problem, understand its causes, and implement preventative measures as early as possible.

Today, suicide is both a national and global epidemic. The crisis is so widespread that recent studies show suicide rates in the United States have risen by roughly 25 percent over the past two decades. On average, there are 123 suicides per day, with mental health issues contributing to around half of these deaths.

Suicide is not just a mental health issue—it is a public health concern. Easy access to firearms makes them the most commonly used method. Moreover, suicide is not always about wanting to die. Those who take their lives often want to end their pain, and suicide becomes, in their view, the only escape—regardless of their religious beliefs. Although the Bible, the Quran, and the Old Testament all strongly condemn suicide, those in deep psychological pain are often unable to connect with spiritual teachings during moments of crisis.

When teenagers commit suicide, they often do so with intent. According to the CDC, boys are four times more likely to die from suicide than girls, but girls are more likely to attempt it. Before making an attempt, many experience suicidal ideation and engage in risky behaviors. Studies from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine reveal that these individuals often lose interest in daily activities, exhibit changes in eating and sleeping habits, use drugs, or become preoccupied with death and dying.

Seniors are also at risk. Americans aged 65 and older represent 20 percent of all suicide deaths, even though they make up only 13 percent of the population. Teenagers attempt suicide more frequently, but older adults are more likely to succeed due to a stronger intent to die. According to Senior Living Link, depression is the leading predictor among seniors, yet it “fails to be recognized and treated consistently within health systems across the United States.”

The CDC outlines strategies based on the best available evidence to help states and communities prevent suicide. These include strengthening economic supports (e.g., improving access to healthcare), reducing access to lethal means for those at risk, providing self-help resources and community programs, fostering connectedness, teaching coping and problem-solving skills, identifying at-risk individuals, and ensuring safe messaging and reporting practices.

Suicide is a serious but preventable issue. While many factors can lead someone to consider suicide, prevention strategies aim to reduce risk and build resilience. Too often, individuals do not seek support through doctors, education, treatment programs, media, or online resources. However, early detection of warning signs can make all the difference. Research shows that individuals who receive help from caring friends and family are significantly less likely to act on suicidal thoughts. One of the most effective resources is the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which offers 24/7 support and connects individuals to local crisis centers.

Ultimately, awareness and strong prevention efforts are critical to saving lives. As psychiatrist Dr. Judith Orloff says, “Freedom comes” when those considering suicide “persist in searching for the light until it’s visible again.” We may not always be able to save a life—but we must try.

 

 

 

 

 

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