Office Visit: Spotting the Signs of Suicide

Office Visit: Spotting the Signs of Suicide

Todd Hoffman, M.D.

As we enter fall, we might be thinking about football, upcoming holidays or cooler weather. However, those with mental health challenges could be struggling just to get through the day.

According to the Oklahoma Department of Health and Substance Abuse, in the past year more than 4% of Oklahoma adults had serious thoughts of suicide, and 1 in 10 students reported attempting suicide.

If you or someone you know needs help, call or text 988, Oklahoma's Mental Health Lifeline. 988 is a free service that provides immediate support and tools for those experiencing mental health or substance misuse issues.

Suicide is complicated and tragic. By promoting and using resources like 988, we can help reduce the suicide rate in Oklahoma and ensure people in our community get the care they deserve.

Let's make it a good month.

Todd Hoffman, M.D., C.P.E., is chief medical officer of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma, a division of Health Care Service Corp., a Mutual Legal Reserve Company.

Nationally, September is recognized as Suicide Prevention month, but suicide prevention is important every day of the year. Signs someone may be contemplating suicide, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, include:

• Talking about wanting to die, extreme shame or feeling like a burden.
• Feeling extremely sad, anxious, agitated or experiencing extreme physical or mental pain.
• Exhibiting behavior changes, including isolation, dangerous risk-taking and extreme mood swings.

If you notice any of these warning signs in someone, help is available and we can help prevent suicide in Oklahoma.