Suicide

Suicide is the third leading cause of death for Rhode Islanders ages 15-24.  According to the 2009 Youth Risk Behavior Survey, approximately 8.2% of Rhode Island high school students stated that they had ever attempted suicide.  Suicide differs from other self-injury (such as intentional cutting, scratching, or burning oneself), in that it is a deliberate attempt to end one’s life.  Suicide attempts are three times more likely among females, (who are twice as likely to experience depression as males) but completed suicides are four times more likely among males, who tend to use more lethal means, such as guns. 

What you should do

If you are in crisis or concerned about someone else

The Rhode Island Samaritans (401) 272-4044 or (800) 365-4044

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800) 273-TALK: (800) 273-8255

If you are in immediate danger, call 911

A large percentage of those who attempt and commit suicide are suffering from mental illnesses such as depression and bipolar disorder, and many never get help due to stigma around help-seeking and therapy in society.  Letting others know that is okay to seek professional help can help prevent suicide.

Learn more

Risk and protective factors for suicide from the CDC.
Warning signs of suicide from the American Association of Suicidology.

What we are doing

Currently, the Rhode Island Department of Health receives a grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to engage in suicide prevention with youth, ages 15-24, through the Rhode Island Youth Suicide Prevention Project.  RI DOH contracts with Rhode Island Student Assistance Services to provide evidence-based gatekeeper training targeting youth in the state.  This training helps to identify and assist youth who may have symptoms of depression or suicidality, and refer them to proper mental health professionals.

The Suicide-Proofing Initiative is the result of a partnership between the Rhode Island Department of Health and the Center to Prevent Youth Violence. The Suicide-Proofing Initiative aims to educate parents about simple steps they can take to reduce the risk of suicide in their homes.

In addition, the SAMHSA grant supports several other related activities under this project, including: creating messaging for a guns/means restriction campaign; promoting the use of Interactive Screening Programs (ISP) in local colleges and universities; and the integration of suicide prevention into curriculum at Brown University.