Suicide Prevention Is A Vital Part Of Drug Education

Marcel Gemme

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. During this month, prevention organizations, survivors, mental health advocates, and community members unite to promote suicide prevention and awareness.

An essential part of suicide prevention, especially amid the ongoing drug overdose epidemic, is recognizing the link between suicide and substance use disorders. Suicide prevention and substance use prevention campaigns are always working together to save lives and inform individuals, families and communities.

It is no secret that substance use, in general, can significantly increase the risk of suicidal ideation, attempts and death. Drugs such as alcohol and opioids are generally the two most implicated substances in suicide risk.

According to the Anne Arundel County Department of Health, there were 74 deaths by suicide in 2021 in the county. Those under the age of 34 had the highest rates of suicide attempts. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention reports that suicide is the 16th leading cause of death in Maryland and the third leading cause of death between those ages 10 and 34.

Overall, the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior is elevated with acute alcohol intoxication and chronic alcohol use or dependence. The same applies to opioid use. Pain, for example, causes alterations to how the brain’s reward center works. This can potentially lead to riskier use of opioids and result in an increased vulnerability to suicide.

Fortunately, prevention campaigns work and increase awareness surrounding substance use and suicide. Anyone can take action today by knowing simple things, such as dialing 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, a 24/7 free and confidential support for people in distress.

Locally, the Anne Arundel County Community Warmline (410-768-5522) is a crisis response system that provides Anne Arundel County residents in crisis with supportive assistance and linkages to resources within the community.

We must all work to change the conversation from suicide to suicide prevention. There are actions that anyone can take to help and give hope to those who are struggling. Consider some of the following pointers.

Ask, do not beat around the bush, but ask that person how they are doing and if they are thinking about suicide. Acknowledging and talking about suicide reduces suicidal ideation. Be there for that person, and they will feel less depressed, less suicidal, and less overwhelmed.

Keep them safe and help them stay connected. When lethal means are made less available or less deadly, the frequency and risks of suicide decline. Moreover, the hopelessness subsides when you help that person create a support network of resources and individuals.

Most importantly, maintain contact, follow up, and see them in person as frequently as possible. This is a critical part of suicide prevention, along with always learning more about prevention and awareness.

However, this process is not bulletproof, and we must recognize there are countless instances of individuals taking their lives and giving no indication or red flag they were suicidal. But if we can keep changing the conversation, breaking down the walls of stigma, and making the resources accessible, more people may ask for help before it is too late.

Marcel Gemme is the founder of SUPE and has been helping people struggling with substance use for over 20 years. His work focuses on a threefold approach: education, prevention and rehabilitation.