Exploring suicide prevention

Suicide is a leading cause of death among youth and adults in the U.S. according to a report by the CDC (2024). In honor of suicide prevention month (September), we wanted to share a little more information regarding the intersection between OCD, Eating Disorders and suicide awareness.

Experiencing OCD or and eating disorder are known to increase the risk of someone having suicidal thoughts, attempting, and dying by suicide. Individuals with more severe symptoms are at greater risk of suicide, which increases with the presence of additional disorders.

One of the best ways to know if someone you love is at risk is by engaging them in a compassionate moment and asking them directly if they have ever thought of hurting themselves or ending their life. Next, connect them with a mental health professional as soon as possible. For some individuals this may be scheduling an appointment with a provider they are already familiar with or meeting with a crisis mental health worker through your local emergency services.

While it can be both challenging and disconcerting to have these conversations, they can save lives.