Idaho Falls, ID — Each year, EIRMC keeps record of self-inflicted trauma wounds and mortalities.
Between January and June of 2024, the Level II Trauma Center at EIRMC treated twelve self-inflicted injuries, 10 of which were fatal. This already exceeds the entire number of cases from all of 2023.
“If we stay on the same trajectory, we may see a 150 percent increase in deaths from suicide attempts. That does not account for the fact that we tend to see more self-inflicted injuries in the summer months, painting a grim picture for our suicide statistics,” Cheri Arnold, Director of Trauma Services at EIRMC explains.
Suicide rates are highest in men between 45-64. Dr. Michael Lemon, Trauma Medical Director for EIRMC, is one of several trauma surgeons that responds to these situations. “We talk about teenage suicide all the time, but the most common people to kill themselves are middle-aged men. It’s the highest risk group, and we don’t talk about it,” Dr. Lemon says.
With numbers on the rise, it’s vital that the community understands this issue and what we can do to stop it.
What causes suicide?
Psychiatrist Matt Larsen explains, “There aren’t any set causes, but we do know that a sense of loneliness and disconnect is one of the driving forces.” As society shifts from in-person interactions to online conversations, people can begin to feel lonely and lost. “When a disconnect happens, people begin to worry that they’re a burden. They don’t talk to their spouse, parents, or friends due to the concern of being a disappointment or a burden, and it just spirals.”
It’s important to recognize that life may not be occurring as it seems; the idea that everything is going ‘right’ may not be correct.
Additional signs of potential suicide are sudden changes in life events that may shatter the person’s perception of life, such as the loss of a relationship or a job, as well as sudden and uncharacteristic habit shifts. “Drinking and using drugs themselves aren’t going to point towards possible suicide warning signs, but suddenly drinking more or using more drugs can.” Dr. Larsen adds, “Check in with people you know, build connections.”
How to help
“People need to recognize the warning signs in themselves and in their families. Suicidal thoughts, depression, making a plan… you need to get help immediately. If you or your loved one is in imminent danger, call 911 or go to the ER,” advises Dr. Lemon.
Keep any potential weapons in a locked safe, guns unloaded, and avoid use of dangerous items while in a heightened state of emotion- even 15 minutes to calm down could save a life.
If you believe that someone you know is struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts, there are resources locally and nationally to help. “You are not alone; you are never alone,” Cheri Arnold says. “There are resources, and we need people to know that they are not alone.”
Resources
Idaho Crisis and Suicide Hotline
Call or text “988” to be connected with trained crisis workers who listen, provide support, and find resources to help. 24/7, free and confidential. Additional resources/support:
- Spanish (dial 988 and press 2 or text AYUDA to 988)
- LGBTQA+ (dial 988 and press 3 or text PRIDE to 988)
- Deaf and hard of hearing (video support).
Support for loss survivors is also available.
Find Help Idaho
This free and confidential database can locate mental health professionals, crisis care centers, mental health facilities, and additional resources.
2-1-1- Idaho CareLine
Call “211” or 800-926-2588, or text 898211
Free information and referral service from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare with resources for free or low-cost that can be used to create a safety plan or find a support group. Available Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 6:00pm MST.
Mental Health Hotline
866-903-3787 for free, confidential 24/7 mental health resources.
SAMHSA Helpline
800-662-4357(HELP) or text your zip code to 435748 (HELP4U)
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration is a free, confidential 24/7 information service for individuals facing mental and/or substance use disorders. This resource provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and other community-based organizations that can help in times of trouble.