Oklahoma continues to have some of the highest rates of behavioral health disorders, which include mental health and substance abuse disorders. Unfortunately, many Oklahomans do not receive the help they need. Due to these factors, among others, the state continues to have high rates of completed suicides.
According to the American Association of Suicidology, on a national level, suicide is the second leading cause of death among youth (ages 15-24); outnumbering homicides. Getting the word out and offering support is key and we all have a crucial role to play in suicide prevention.
Here are some suicide risk warning signs. You can easily remember it by the mnemonic “IS PATH WARM?”
If you notice these warning signs in yourself or a loved one help is available. Suicide is preventable and treatment works! The Citizen Potawatomi Nation’s Behavioral Health Services offers mental and substance abuse treatments that include individual, group, couples and family counseling and psychiatry. There are also other tribal clinics, counseling agencies, and private practice mental health professionals in the community.
In addition to local resources, you can contact the national suicide prevention lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). The lifeline is free, confidential and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To learn more about CPN Health Services or CPN Behavioral Health, call (405) 214-5101.