How to recognize signs of suicide risk according to experts

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) - Idaho is one of the leading states in deaths by suicide. According to the CDC, it is the 7th leading cause of death in the state, just below stroke and above Diabetes.

Many mental health resources across the state, and even free hotlines nationwide, are here to support those in need.

"We are helping people at the lowest point when they're in crisis," Melissa Thyberg, the Vice President of EIRMC's Behavioral Health Center, said. "Most of us have had our lives touched by mental health, or know somebody who has died by suicide, and it is critically important to me that we do our very best to support those who are need, that we take this seriously."

Signs to look out for that someone is considering committing suicide are not uniform and could look very different from person to person. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention listed some characteristics to be on the look out for.

If a person talks about:

• Killing themselves
• Feeling hopeless
• Having no reason to live
• Being a burden to others
• Feeling trapped
• Unbearable pain

Behaviors that may signal risk, especially if related to a painful event, loss or change:

• Increased use of alcohol or drugs
• Looking for a way to end their lives, such as searching online for methods
• Withdrawing from activities
• Isolating from family and friends
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Visiting or calling people to say goodbye
• Giving away prized possessions
• Aggression
• Fatigue

People who are considering suicide often display one or more of the following moods:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Loss of interest
• Irritability
• Humiliation/Shame
• Agitation/Anger
• Relief/Sudden Improvement

These are not uniform but if you notice these symptoms in a loved one, don't hesitate to speak with them about suicidal thoughts.

"Ask somebody if they are having thoughts of suicide," Thyberg said. "We used to think we shouldn't talk about suicide because it could increase risk. That is that is not true."

There are ways for those at risk to get help within their community.

"We're just one step in that journey for people," Thyberg said. "We are one part. So making sure that they have the resources in place when they leave our care to be successful. It takes the entire community to support somebody who is at risk for suicide."

Here is a list of mental health support across the region as well as information on national services, such as the Suicide Hotline.

You can call or text the Suicide Hotline at 988. When you call or text you connect with a free, confidential network of trained crisis counselors who will provide emotional support. These are real, trained people here to support you.

• Idaho Falls:
  • Behavioral Health Center at EIRMC
  • Community Suicide Prevention
  • The Behavioral Health and Crisis Center
• Pocatello & Blackfoot:
  • Bingham Crisis Center
  • High Country Behavioral Health
  • South East Idaho Behavioral Crisis Center
• Jackson:
  • Mental Health & Recovery Resources
  • St. Johns Health
  • Wyoming Department of Health
• Rexburg & Rigby:
  • East Idaho Mental Health
  • Tuller Counseling Services