James Donaldson on Mental Health - Does the risk for suicide change by season of the year?

The likelihood goes up when people have access to lethal means, have a family history of suicide, or have endured personal trauma.

People who are unemployed or experiencing financial distress are at higher risk, as are those who are chronically ill or in pain.

We also see higher rates of suicide among middle-aged men or people who are experiencing gambling addiction.

Although these factors increase a person’s risk, taken alone they are only weak to moderate in their ability to precisely predict who may die by suicide.

Clusters of factors taken together may hold more weight but should certainly not be seen as inevitable.

When assessing someone’s risk for suicide, it’s also important to consider what we call “protective factors” such as their safety supports, whether they are receiving treatment for a mental disorder, and their level of social support also.

That is why the Butler County Mental Health and Addiction Recovery Services Board funds programs that will reduce the risk factors.

For example, the Butler County Crisis Hotline is available 24/7, 365 for people in crisis.

The Mobile Crisis Team goes directly to the people in need.

We also support a number of providers in our local system who specialize in strengthening protective factors through counseling, treatment, peer support and education – and offer a sliding scale fee to support county residents who need financial assistance for services.