According to the CDC, suicide is the second leading cause of death in people ages 25 to 34. And men make up the majority of suicides. This month is known as “Movember,” a yearly event where men grow their mustaches to raise awareness for men’s health issues, including suicide.
On Wellness Monday, Dr. Peter Franz from the Psychiatry Research Institute of Montefiore Einstein joined “News All Day” to talk about the recent study he authored.
The study shows that reading other people’s first-hand stories about working through suicidal thoughts can reduce someone’s risk as well.
Franz says that risk factor for suicidal behavior include social isolation, not engaging with friends or loved ones, not talking about or planning for the future, a sudden increase in substance use, and instability. He characterizes instability as rapid shifts in mood, sadness and irritability.
Franz also provides an example of a way to start a conversation with someone you think may struggle with suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
If you or someone you know is struggling, call 988 for help.