Suicide Is Closer Than We Think And Why Talking To Someone Can Save A Life.

Suicide is one of the most difficult topics to talk about, yet nearly everyone has been touched by it in some way. A friend. A family member. A coworker. Someone we once laughed with or passed in a hallway. Someone whose name still crosses our minds with the thought, I wish I had checked in one more time.

These losses are not rare, and they are not abstract. They are happening in our communities at alarming rates.

Suicide Rates In Oklahoma And Nebraska

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Oklahoma recorded approximately 857 deaths by suicide in 2022, translating to a rate of about 21.4 per 100,000 people, well above the national average. Nebraska lost around 305 people to suicide in the same year, with a rate of approximately 15.6 per 100,000.

To put this in perspective, the national suicide rate in 2022 was closer to 14.1 per 100,000. Both Oklahoma and Nebraska exceed that average, with Oklahoma ranking among the highest states for suicide rates nationwide.

These numbers represent real people. Parents. Veterans. Teenagers. Professionals. Friends and neighbors.

Men Are At Significantly Higher Risk

One of the most consistent findings in suicide research is the gender disparity. In both Nebraska and Oklahoma, men die by suicide at more than four times the rate of women. This pattern holds true across the United States.

While women report higher rates of depression and suicidal thoughts, men are far more likely to die by suicide due to factors such as social isolation, reluctance to seek help, stigma around mental health, and higher use of lethal means.

This is why men’s mental health awareness and access to counseling is not optional. It is lifesaving.

Counseling And Therapy Save Lives

Decades of research show that mental health counseling works. Evidence based therapies have repeatedly been shown to reduce suicidal ideation, attempts, and long term risk.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns that fuel hopelessness and despair.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy is especially effective for individuals experiencing intense emotional distress and suicidal thoughts, teaching skills for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.

Studies also show that even brief counseling interventions and follow up care after a crisis significantly reduce future suicide attempts. Consistent connection with a trained professional creates accountability, support, and hope at moments when people feel overwhelmed or trapped.

Talking to a therapist is not a sign of weakness. It is one of the most effective protective factors against suicide.

The Importance Of Recognizing Warning Signs

Suicide rarely happens without warning. Research has identified several common warning signs that should never be ignored.

These include sudden withdrawal from friends or family, dramatic mood changes, increased use of alcohol or drugs, giving away possessions, talking about feeling like a burden, expressing hopelessness, or saying goodbye in ways that feel final.

One of the most persistent myths is that asking someone directly if they are thinking about suicide will put the idea in their head. Research clearly shows this is false. Asking directly can reduce risk by giving someone permission to talk about what they are experiencing.

Checking in can quite literally keep someone alive.

Why Checking On People Matters

Many people who die by suicide do not want to die. They want the pain to stop. Feeling seen, heard, and supported can interrupt that moment of crisis.

This is why reaching out matters. This is why paying attention matters. This is why we cannot assume someone else will notice.

Please check on your people. Please take signs seriously. Please make sure you are not the one others are wishing they had reached out to sooner.

Help Is Available Right Now

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available 24 hours a day. You can call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, to connect with trained counselors at any time.

You can also reach Joy Therapy’s Emergency Line at 402-520-7883 for immediate support and guidance.

No one should have to face this alone. Support saves lives, and reaching out can be the first step toward healing.