
Table of Contents
How Charlie Health Supports Clients With Suicidality
Written By: Elizabeth Kroll
Clinically Reviewed By: Clary Figueroa
September 20, 2024
4 min.
Learn about how our specialized intensive services support the well-being of clients with a history of suicidality.
Learn more about our Clinical Review Process
Table of Contents
Trigger warning: Suicide. If you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts or are in danger of harming yourself, this is a mental health emergency. Contact The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24/7 by calling or texting 988.
September is Suicide Prevention Month, and this year, there has been more attention than ever on recognition and initiatives. Landmarks have been illuminated in teal and purple to honor those lost to suicide, while national associations and sports teams like the Chicago Bears have announced initiatives and resources for those struggling with suicidal thoughts. These efforts are crucial because suicide prevention is not only about recognizing warning signs but also about dismantling the stigma surrounding mental health and creating environments where people feel safe to reach out for help. However, the need for large-scale, systemic change is still critical in making mental healthcare more accessible and affordable to everyone, particularly vulnerable populations.
At Charlie Health, we’re dedicated to addressing gaps in mental healthcare, including support for those experiencing suicidality. Our intensive mental health programs provide more than weekly therapy for individuals with high-acuity conditions, including those with a history of suicidal thoughts or attempts. Keep reading to learn how Charlie Health supports clients with suicidality and the outcomes clients make by the end of treatment.
Suicide data and statistics in the United States
Suicide is unfortunately common in the United States. Below, we delve into key data and statistics surrounding suicide rates, demographics, and trends, highlighting the urgency of addressing this public health crisis.
- Suicide is a leading cause of death for children ages 10-14 and the 11th leading cause of death across all ages
- Suicide rates are continuing to increase across the country
- In 2022, over 49,000 people died by suicide in the United States, which equates to a death by suicide every 11 minutes
- Over 30% of adolescents seriously consider suicide each year
Treating suicidality with Charlie Health’s IOP: a look at the data
As an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) serving high-acuity populations, Charlie Health sees a lot of clients who experience suicidal ideation. At intake, over one-third (34%) of clients report active suicidal ideation within the last week, and just about half (47%) of our clients report a suicide attempt at least once in their lives. These statistics highlight the urgent need for comprehensive support and effective treatment options tailored to those with serious mental health concerns.
However, our data also shows how hope and healing are possible. First, many protective factors, defined as conditions or attributes that help reduce the likelihood of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, influence the risk of suicidal ideation. For example, data shows that clients who report higher peer and family support are less likely to endorse active suicidal ideation, and less likely to have attempted suicide at some point in their lives. Recognizing and fostering these protective factors can play a critical role in suicide prevention and overall mental health improvement.
Also, clients who complete treatment at Charlie Health see a 69% decrease in suicidal ideation from intake to discharge on average, with those effects enduring at least a year. This reduction in suicidal thoughts is linked to improved mental health outcomes, including a 93% decrease in inpatient admissions, an 83% reduction in emergency room visits, a 52% decrease in self-harm, and a 47% drop in anxiety. And of those clients who saw improvements in their suicidal ideation, nearly two-thirds (62%) received increased family support by the end of treatment, and over half (58%) saw an increase in peer support. These outcomes underscore the importance of our services in fostering long-term recovery and enhancing overall well-being.
Suicide prevention strategies
While suicide prevention is not ultimately any one person’s responsibility, small actions, like checking in on loved ones or sharing resources, can have a profound impact. Below are some resources and prevention methods to help combat the national suicide epidemic.
1. Invest in community-led suicide prevention
People are influenced by and influencers of their communities. Data shows that by bringing suicide prevention into community spaces, whether that’s schools, workplaces, churches, or volunteer organizations, we can broaden the scope of knowledge and access to make sure that everyone is aware of the warning signs, and resources available.
2. Foster strong social connections
Research consistently shows that isolation can raise the risk of suicide. By maintaining strong social bonds, we can provide emotional support to those who need it most. Encourage honest conversations and check in regularly. Small acts of care can remind someone they aren’t alone.
3. Provide access to care
Easy access to mental healthcare is one of the most important elements of preventing deaths by suicide. People who are at imminent risk of taking their own lives should have quick and easy access to professionals who can offer support and provide a safe space to combat those feelings.
If you or a loved one is struggling with thoughts of suicide, Charlie Health is here to help. Charlie Health’s virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provides more than once-weekly mental health treatment for young people and families. Our expert clinicians incorporate evidence-based therapies into individual counseling, family therapy, and group sessions. We also offer psychiatric services as needed. With this kind of holistic treatment, managing suicidal thoughts is possible. Fill out the form below or give us a call to start healing today.
References
https://www.nga.org/news/commentary/nations-governors-mark-september-as-suicide-awareness-month/
https://www.chicagobears.com/news/suicide-prevention-awareness-month-resources
https://afsp.org/suicide-statistics/
https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/child-health.htm
https://www.apa.org/monitor/2023/07/psychologists-preventing-teen-suicide