Understanding the Alarming Rise of the Female Suicide Crisis

Over ten thousand women lost their lives to suicide in 2022, a 3.8% increase from the previous year. Given these troubling statistics, it’s time to reflect on the prevalence of suicide among women in our society and educate ourselves on the warning signs and how to prevent it. At the Coach T Mental Wellness Corner, we believe in empowering women to take an active role in suicide prevention by supporting one another and seeking help if they or another woman they know is struggling with suicidal thoughts.

September is Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month and the perfect time to discuss the alarming rate of women who have taken their own lives over the last few years. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among people ages 10-14 and 25-34. According to the CDC, from 2001 to 2015 the rate of suicides among females increased from 4.1 to 6.0 out of 100,000. Although there was no significant change through to 2018 (6.2), after a two-year decline to 5.5 out of 100,000 in 2020, the suicide rate had a 4% increase in 2021 to 5.7.

Leading Cause of Female Suicide

One of the primary reasons women die by suicide is mental illness. Conditions such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, can significantly impact a woman’s mental health. Without proper treatment, these conditions can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair, which may ultimately result in suicidal thoughts or actions.

Also, circumstantial challenges are another common reason why women may consider suicide. These challenges can include things like financial struggles, relationship problems, job loss, or chronic illnesses. When individuals are faced with overwhelming challenges that seem insurmountable, they may begin to feel like there is no other way out.

Another factor that can contribute to suicide risk is a history of trauma. Trauma can take many forms, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, neglect, or exposure to violence. While traumatic events can happen to anyone, the more traumatic events an individual faces the higher the risk of taking their own life.

Suicide Prevention Measures

Preventing suicide is not always easy, but there are steps you can take to help yourself or a loved one. Seeking professional help, such as therapy or counseling, is one of the most effective ways to address mental health issues and reduce the risk of suicide. Additionally, reducing any potentially lethal means and following up with the person having suicidal thoughts are two simple yet important ways to help reduce the likelihood of suicide.

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, there are resources available to help. 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) offers 24/7 support by calling their toll-free number 9-8-8. You can also find a therapist on Psychology Today's website, which allows you to search for mental health professionals in your area based on your specific needs.

At the Coach T Mental Wellness Center, we want you to know that you are not alone and there is always hope for a better tomorrow. To receive additional education and training for your employees on suicide prevention, you can reach Coach T at thillconsultant.com or by email at info@thillconsultant.com for more information.