Suicide Prevention

Menu

Are You or Someone You Know in Crisis?

You are not alone, and help is available. Contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline if you are experiencing mental health-related distress or are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support. Connect with a trained crisis counselor. 988 is confidential, free, and available 24/7/365.

Suicide Facts

  • There are over 700 suicides each year in Minnesota. (MDH)
  • Over the last two decades, adult suicide rates have increased. (MDH)
  • In 2022, suicide was among the top 9 leading causes of death for people ages 10–64. Suicide was the second leading cause of death for people ages 10–14 and 25–34. (CDC)
  • Poisoning is the most common method of suicide for females. (CDC)

Population Groups Most Affected

  • Suicide among males is nearly four times higher than among females. Male deaths represent almost 80% of all US suicides. (CDC)
  • Suicide is the second leading cause of death for persons age 15 to 34 in the US. (CDC)
  • The highest suicide rates in the US are among Whites, American Indians, and Alaska Natives. (SAVE)

Common Warning Signs

Sometimes suicide can seem sudden, but in many cases, there are signs and symptoms that someone is considering it. The signs may appear in conversations, through their actions, or mood. Knowing the warning signs for suicide and how to get help can help save lives.

Talking about:

  • Wanting to die
  • Great guilt or shame
  • Being a burden to others

Feeling:

  • Unbearable emotional or physical pain
  • Empty, hopeless, trapped, or having no reason to live
  • Extremely sad, anxious, agitated, or full of rage
  • Feeling like they are a burden to others

Changes in behavior or mood:

  • Planning or researching ways to kill themselves (e.g., searching for lethal methods online, stockpiling pills, or buying a gun)
  • Withdrawing from family, friends, or community
  • Saying goodbye to friends and family
  • Giving away prized possessions
  • Putting affairs in order, such as making a will
  • Taking dangerous risks that could lead to death
  • Increased alcohol or drug use
  • Changes in eating or sleeping patterns

Five Action Steps for Helping Someone in Emotional Pain or Crisis

  1. Ask: Ask, “Are you thinking about suicide?” This communicates that you’re open to talking in a non-judgmental way.
  2. Be There: Be physically present, talk on the phone, or show support in another meaningful way.
  3. Keep Them Safe: Reduce access to lethal means whenever possible.
  4. Help Them Connect: Connect them with support such as the 988 Lifeline and local resources.
  5. Follow Up: Stay in touch after a crisis or discharge from care.

Suicide Can Be Prevented

Below are strategies that can help save lives.

  1. Call the 988 Lifeline if you’re experiencing:
    • Thoughts of suicide
    • Mental health or substance use crisis
    • Any other emotional distress
  2. Keep prescription and over-the-counter medicines locked in a safe place
  3. Know what medicines you have and how much of each
  4. Limit the amount of pills accessible in the home
  5. Discuss medicine safety with teens who self-administer medication
  6. Dispose of unused medicine: Find a medication disposal location near you
  7. Store alcohol and other potential poisons in locked cabinets
  8. Educate children and teens about safe alcohol use
  9. Be aware of hidden alcohols in household products (mouthwash, hand sanitizer, rubbing alcohol, etc.)

What is Depression?

Depression is a recognizable and treatable illness. Treating depression helps people lead happier, healthier lives. It can also save lives.

Depression is a medical illness of the brain that affects mood, thoughts, feelings, behavior, and physical health. Unlike the blues, depression lasts longer than a couple of weeks and does not go away with positive thinking or determination. Depression requires treatment.

Treating depression is the most effective way to prevent suicide.

If someone may be trying to harm themselves or has already done so, call 911 right away.

For questions about possible poisoning or overdose, call Poison Help at
1-800-222-1222.