Department of Health speaks on mental health
From 2014 to 2021, nearly 3,400 Mississippians have lost their lives due to suicide and 52% of those deaths occurred over a four-year span (20182021). This is according to the most recent data from to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
In 2021, 480 Mississippians took their own lives, totaling to 10,007 years of potential life lost.
In 2020, 410 lost their life by suicide with firearms accounting for nearly 70% of the fatalities. No firearm data for 2021 has been provided.
The 2021 data is the most recent available.
Wendy Bailey, the executive director of the Mississippi Department of Mental Health, said the department works to spread awareness about suicide prevention and highlight the resources available to save lives.
"During any holiday season, it's important to remember that it's really common to feel additional stress. That stress can worsen symptoms of a mental health condition such as depression or anxiety or substance use disorder," Bailey said. "Remember, it's important to take care of yourself."
Suicidal thoughts
According to data from the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 431,000 adults in Mississippi have a mental health condition.
Nearly 30% of those adults did not receive needed mental health care primarily due to cost.
Bailey said it is important for those who have thoughts of suicide to talk to someone such as the Behavioral Health Crisis line that available 24 hours a day and seven days a week at 988.
She provided other tips for people to take care of themselves:
Resisting the urge to overindulge in substances such as alcohol to cope with stress
Opt for healthy foods and regular exercise
Taking time to reflect on the positive things in your life and expressing gratitude
In addition, she provided a list of factors that can show someone may be at risk:
Previous suicide attempt, a history of depression or other mental illness
Withdrawn from enjoyed activities or loved ones
Changes in eating or sleeping habits
hhhhhh"One factor that is sometimes overlooked or missed, especially with young adults is having a having cheerfulness after a deep depression," Bailey said.
"A lot of times for parents who've lost their child to suicide, they may have said they thought their child was getting better and coming out of their depression. But if it happens pretty fast and it's a drastic change, it needs to be taken into consideration that the child may have made a decision to take their life."
"By knowing the warning signs and symptoms, you can recognize it in other people and in yourself," Bailey said.
Suicide prevention
According to the Mississippi Department of Mental Health, suicide is the third leading cause of death for Mississippi youth ages 15-24. And 53% of suicides occur for people between the ages of 25 and 54.
A suicide prevention training initiative called “Shatter the Silence" through the state Department of Mental Health is aimed at mitigating the struggles that face various age groups and career occupations.
Training is offered to youth, older adults, military, law enforcement and first responders, postpartum mothers, faith-based youth, faith-based adults, correction officers and general adults.
More than 10,000 people were trained in Shatter the Silence during fiscal year 2023, with two-thirds of participants involved in the youth training.
Bailey said for each targeted audience, the trainings will focus on stigma related to mental illness and resources available.
"Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness," Bailey said.
Remembering loved ones
While this past holiday season can be a time of joy and celebration, Bailey said it's important to be mindful of those who may be struggling.
For the individuals and families who have lost a loved one to suicide, she said to prioritize your own mental health and well-being during the holidays.
"It's oftentimes easy to get into a cycle of hopelessness so make sure that you are taking care of yourself," Bailey said.
"We can all support one another year-round not just during the holiday. We can encourage a community and a state where mental health well-being is a priority."
If you or someone you love is having thoughts of suicide or mental distress, call or text 988, or chat online at 988lifeline.org. Communications are confidential, and a trained counselor can connect you to resources. - the Mississippi Department of Mental Health