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Suicide Prevention

  • There are far more suicides each year than homicides. In fact, in from 2008 - 2010, the number of U.S. suicides has been more than twice that of homicides.
  • In 2010, more than 38,000 people died nationally by suicide.
  • In 2009, there were an estimated 374,486 people nationwide treated in emergency departments for self-inflicted injuries. The number increased to 464,995 in 2010 and 487,770 in 2011.

Contact NYC Well for Support

NYC Well has a staff of trained mental health professionals that can help callers find the most appropriate mental health and substance abuse services for their needs. Services include counseling, suicide prevention, crisis intervention, peer support, referrals to care, assistance in connecting to the referral, and follow-up services. NYC Well is free and confidential and operates 24 hours per day, 7 days per week via phone, text, and internet chat. NYC Well is multilingual and multicultural:

  • 1-888-NYC-WELL (1-888-692-9355)
  • 1-888-692-9355 (Español)
  • 1-888-692-9355 (中文)
  • 711 (TTY for hearing impaired)

You can also text WELL to 65173 or go to NYC Well, an online resource for individuals, families and agencies in need of help and information.

Suicide Warning Signs

You can help prevent suicide by learning the warning signs. The following signs may mean someone is at risk for suicide. The risk of suicide is greater if a behavior is new or has increased and if it seems related to a painful event, loss, or change.

  • Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves
  • Looking for a way to kill themselves, such as searching online or buying a gun
  • Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
  • Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
  • Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
  • Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
  • Sleeping too little or too much
  • Withdrawing or isolating themselves
  • Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
  • Displaying extreme mood swings

Age Group Differences

  • Suicide is the second leading cause of death among 25 to 34 year olds and the third leading cause of death among 15 to 24 year olds.
  • Suicide among 45 to 54 year-olds is a growing problem; the national rate of suicide is higher in this age group than in any other.
  • Although older adults engage in suicide attempts less than those in other age groups, they have a higher rate of death by suicide.

More Resources

Some of this information has been excerpted from the Suicide Prevention Resource Center.