Suicide is a heartbreaking reality that affects many lives every year, according to Dr. Suzanne Blaising, PhD at Wholeness Center. As September marks suicide prevention month, the center aims to reduce stigma and equip people with prevention tools. Despite mental health advances, some individuals struggle to find effective treatments when experiencing hopelessness and despair.

Risk Factors for Suicide

The American Psychiatric Association identifies these risk factors:

  • Previous suicide attempts
  • Family history of suicide
  • Substance use
  • Mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder)
  • Access to lethal means (firearms, unsecured medications)
  • Losses and stressful events (relationship breakups, deaths, academic/financial difficulties)
  • History of trauma or abuse
  • Bullying
  • Chronic physical illness and chronic pain
  • Exposure to others’ suicidal behavior
  • Social isolation
  • Historical trauma
  • Stigma around seeking help

Warning Signs of Suicide

  • Frequent discussion or writing about death, dying, or suicide
  • Expressions of hopelessness, helplessness, or worthlessness
  • Statements like “It would be better if I wasn’t here”
  • Increased alcohol and/or drug use
  • Withdrawal from relationships and community
  • Reckless or high-risk behavior
  • Dramatic mood fluctuations
  • Feelings of being trapped or burdensome

Protective Factors and Supportive Mental Health

Strengthening protective factors helps prevent suicide:

  • Regular contact with healthcare providers
  • Access to effective mental health interventions
  • Strong connections to family, community, and institutions
  • Cultural identity and belonging
  • Problem-solving and conflict resolution capabilities

Innovative Treatment Approaches

Ketamine

Originally used as an anesthetic, ketamine therapy shows promise for treatment-resistant depression. It can begin to relieve severe depression and suicidal thoughts within hours, making it valuable for immediate crisis situations. Effects are typically short-term, requiring integration into comprehensive treatment plans with therapy and support.

Psilocybin

The active compound in certain mushrooms, psilocybin facilitates deep experiences that may shift perspective on life. Research indicates it reduces depression and anxiety symptoms while promoting connection and groundedness—crucial protective factors against suicide.

Safety Considerations

Both substances require safe, controlled environments with the help of trained professionals to ensure effectiveness and manage potential side effects properly.

Wholeness Center’s Approach

Wholeness Center specializes in innovative mental health solutions, particularly ketamine-assisted therapy for treatment-resistant depression. The organization offers free consultations for new patients and welcomes inquiries at 970-221-1106 or through our website.