Anoka County Press Release

Suicide is the second leading cause of death among Anoka County youth, ages 15-24, according to Anoka County officials and state data.

Recent Anoka County suicides in the news are putting the spotlight on suicide prevention efforts, said Anoka County Commissioner Rhonda Sivarajah, chair of the county’s human services committee. “People want to know what to look for, especially in young people, and where to turn for help,” said Sivarajah. “Fortunately, resources are available in Anoka County.”

The Mental Wellness Campaign for Anoka County, a nonprofit organization of mental health services providers, consumers and community leaders, encourages people to learn more about mental health and illnesses like depression. The World Health Organization projects that by 2010, depression will be the number one disability.

"Mental health is as important as physical health,” said DJ Moser, chair of the Mental Wellness Campaign for Anoka County. “People need to pay attention to mental health issues, for themselves and their loved ones.”

Roughly 90 percent of the people who commit suicide have an existing mental illness or substance abuse issue, Moser said. The brain is a major organ, just like the lungs, heart and liver. It can become chemically imbalanced, resulting in depression and suicidal thoughts. Nationally, 15% of adults suffering from depression commit suicide annually. However, 80 percent of people receiving appropriate treatment experience relief and improved quality of life.

“It is important that individuals with depression work with a professional,” said Moser. “Depression and suicide are preventable, but only 20 percent of depressed teens receive assistance.”

Between 1990 and 2007 in Anoka County, 503 residents committed suicide, according to Bill Pinsonnault, director, Anoka County Social Services and Mental Health Department.

According to the Minnesota Department of Health, nine of 35 suicides in 2006 in Anoka County were youth, ages 15-24, making suicide the second leading cause of death for this age group. Unintentional injury was first with 12 deaths. Anoka County had the highest number of suicides in youth under 20 years old in Minnesota in 2006.

SUICIDAL BEHAVIORS DIFFER BETWEEN ADULTS AND YOUTH

Adolescents and young adults often exhibit different symptoms than mature adults when struggling with depression, Pinsonnault explained. Adults may experience sadness, disturbances in eating and sleeping patterns, irritability, increased anxiety, difficulty concentrating, and suicidal thoughts. Teens may be extremely sensitive to criticism-especially “over-achieving” youth.

Although depressed adults tend toward isolation, youth usually maintain some friendships, but may pull away from parents and/or make friends with a different crowd. While an adult may seek help on their own for depression and to reduce the risk of suicide, teens often do not realize the dangers they face. Teens need adult intervention to ensure their safety.

There are often warning signs that a young person may be considering suicide. Signs include talking, joking, or writing about death or committing suicide. They might make comments such as “I’d be better off dead” or “I wish I could disappear forever.” Often they engage in reckless behavior, resulting in injuries. Some youth give away prized possessions, say goodbye to loved ones or seek out a means of killing themselves.

SEEK HELP PROMPTLY

It’s important to seek assistance promptly when youth or other individuals exhibit suicidal behavior or depression. Help is available by calling any of the following organizations:

Riverwind Crisis Services (a local crisis prevention service): 763-755-3801 ·

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 ·

Native Youth Crisis Hotline: 1-877-209-1266, toll free

For more information on the Mental Wellness Campaign for Anoka County, contact Bill Pinsonnault, director, Anoka County Social Services and Mental Health Department, at 763-422-7007 or bill.pinsonnault@co.anoka.mn.us.

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page last updated - 03/20/2008