Talking Openly About Suicide Can Save Lives In Utah

September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and offering hope to those who may be struggling. On a recent episode of the Big Picture Morning Show on KSUB radio, Jordan Merrill, Community Health Manager for Intermountain Health’s Desert Region, spoke about the importance of breaking the silence surrounding suicide and understanding the resources available in southern Utah.

“Last year, 656 people here in Utah took their own life,” Merrill confirmed during the interview. While Utah has seen some improvement over the last decade, the state still ranks 11th in the nation for suicide deaths. “We want to be #50-51,” Merrill said. “We want to be one of the top surviving states because we have the most resources here. That’s what we want.”

A major myth, Merrill explained, is that talking about suicide puts the idea into someone’s mind. “Research shows that if we talk about it then we reduce not only the stigma but we can alleviate the pressure that somebody might be feeling,” he said. “By talking about it, offering hope, offering resources and asking if somebody's OK, we're reducing that stigma, but also we're reducing that pressure.”

If You Want To Help, Know The Signs And Then Listen

Recognizing warning signs is critical. According to Merrill, these can include withdrawal from social situations, feelings of hopelessness, irritability, changes in sleep patterns, or even giving away prized possessions. “Any major changes in behavior can be a warning sign,” he said. “It can be an opportunity for us to engage in a conversation: ‘How are you doing? How are you feeling?’”

When offering support, Merrill emphasized listening over trying to fix problems. “The biggest tool that I tell people is their ears,” he said. “We can listen, we can show empathy and we can show that we care about them.”

Merrill highlighted several vital resources for individuals and families. The 9-8-8 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is one of the most important tools available. “9-8-8 is the 9-1-1 for any mental health crisis,” he said. It can be called 24/7 whether you are in crisis or are concerned about someone else. Additional local resources include MCOT through Southwest Behavioral, the receiving center in Hurricane, and the Access Center at St. George Regional Hospital. Online resources such as intermountainhealth.org/takecharge and liveonutah.org.

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Merrill’s message was clear: there is always hope and help available. “If you ever feel like this is it for me, I’ve lost all hope,” he said, “remember that there are resources out there. Call 988 and they can provide you direct help and connect you to the support you need.”

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Our entire conversation with Jordan Merrill can be heard in the podcast below.