Mental Health and Suicide Prevention in Arizona
In Arizona, suicide is the 10th leading cause of death, and at least 1,599 Arizonans died of suicide last year. Suicide is something that can impact anyone, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, religious preference, economic status, and political affiliation. Therefore, state prevention efforts which offer a wide variety of resources to groups within the community are essential. In order to address this public health crisis, as a community, we can join together to educate ourselves on the warning signs of suicide and learn how to respond to someone who may be struggling with thoughts of suicide.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, some potential warning signs of suicide include the following:
- Talking about being a burden to others
- Feelings of immense guilt or shame
- Withdrawing from friends or family, saying goodbye, giving away important items
- Displaying mood swings
- Risk-taking behaviors, using alcohol or drugs more often
- More information regarding warning signs of suicide can be found here
In Arizona, the Arizona Department of Health Services Suicide Prevention Action Plan of 2022-23 created a comprehensive plan to improve suicide prevention training, increase community engagement, and bolster post-crisis care. Some initiatives include partnering with LGBTQIA+ organizations such as the Thornhill Lopez Center on 4th (THLC4) to promote inclusivity in our culture and community that is supportive of individuals of all sexual and gender identities. Additionally, for older adults (age 65+), the ADHS partnered with the Humane Society to develop a pilot pet adoption/takeback program which decreases social isolation for this at-risk group. Additional programs for veterans, adolescents, American Indian/Alaska Natives, and suicide attempt survivors/survivors of suicide loss can be found at the Arizona Department of Health Services website.
Additionally, ways to prevent suicide and increase safety at home include:
- Remove or secure firearms, ammunition, or other lethal weapons in the home
- Reduce the volume of prescription and over-the-counter medications and store them in a safe place
- Prescription drug disposal drop-off locations around Arizona can be found here
The following resources for Arizonans are available:
- The Arizona crisis hotline 1-844-543-HOPE or text 4HOPE
- Arizona Community Mental Health Clinics offering a sliding scale fees or free services for those who qualify