Barriers exist when attempting to access professional treatment for the prevention and treatment of suicidal ideation and suicide, particularly for men and people of color. The feeling of hopelessness felt by suicide-prone individuals can inspire inexplicable actions, proving the importance of addressing and treating mental health conditions, and bringing awareness to the matter, particularly as National Suicide Prevention Week comes to a close.

Approximately 47 percent of Americans believe that they have or had a mental health condition, yet just 38 percent receive treatment. While 86 percent of people understand that mental health conditions like depression are risk factors for suicide, far less than 50 percent are aware that panic and anxiety disorders and PTSD diagnosis are also risk factors. Additionally, substance abuse, life difficulties, depression and anxiety disorders can be co-occurring in those with suicidal thoughts.

A suicide fact sheet prepared by the Suicide Prevention Resource Center indicated that suicide is the 12th leading cause of death for Hispanics of all ages, and the third leading cause of death for Hispanic males between ages 15 and 34. While Hispanic adults aren't more likely to display suicidal behaviors than the mainstream, Hispanics born in the U.S. have higher rates of suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts than foreign-born Hispanics. Also, immigrants who arrived in the U.S. as children have higher suicide rates than those who arrive as adolescents or adults. Alienation, acculturative stress, family conflict, hopelessness, fatalism and discrimination contribute to suicidal thoughts and attempts among Hispanics.

According to the results of the new survey prepared for the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention, "A Survey about Mental Health and Suicide in the United States," nearly 90 percent of Americans value physical health and mental health equally, however one-third of Americans believe that health care is inaccessible. Additionally, more than 40 percent see cost as a barrier to treatment for most. This is unfortunate because Americans also recognize the distinct connection between mental health and overall well-being, as well as its impact on home and work life, and one's outlook on the world.

"There's a significant body of research that demonstrates that individuals suffering from anxiety disorders and depression face an increased risk for suicidal thoughts and attempts," Dr. Mark Pollack, president of the Anxiety and Depression Association of America and Grainger Professor and Chairman, Department of Psychiatry, Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, said in a press release. "Effectively diagnosing and treating both anxiety disorders and depression, especially when they co-occur, are critical pathways to intervening and reducing suicide crises."

Ninety-four percent of adults think suicide is at least sometimes preventable; 55 percent of adults are affected by suicide in some way, and 67 percent said if they had thoughts of suicide they would tell someone. Persons who've received treatment for mental health conditions found it useful to receive in-person psychotherapy (82 percent), prescription medication (75 percent), or another form of treatment.

Those below the age of 54 are most likely to have received treatment for mental health conditions, and adults between the ages 18 and 34 are most likely to consider it a sign of strength to see a mental health professional, compared to older groups. However, men are significantly less likely to tell anyone if they're contemplating suicide, or report if they're experiencing anxiety and depressive disorders. They will, however, report substance related conditions.

"The findings provide key insights into how Americans view mental health conditions, life circumstances, barriers for seeking help, and their understanding of the risk factors for suicide," said Dr. Doryn Chervin, Executive Secretary of the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention and Vice President and Senior Scientist at Education Development Center, Inc., in a statement.

"Knowing that the vast majority believe that suicide is preventable helps us to take immediate action. We must continue to support, treat and care for those struggling with mental health conditions and suicidal thoughts. It's all about saving lives."

When made aware of someone else's suicidal thoughts, it's important to do something to challenge that way of thinking. According to data shared by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, 97 percent of Americans would do something, which includes encouraging that individual to seek help (78 percent), whether it's from a mental health professional, doctor or primary care professional or a member of the clergy; staying with them until they got help (63 percent) or calling or providing a crisis line number (61 percent).

The report shared that Americans value mental health, but more must be done to ensure that individuals of all walks have access to care and prevention methods that could save lives.

Presently, 74 percent of Americans believe nothing will help their suicidal thinking, 68 percent don't know how to get help, 65 percent are embarrassed, 62 percent can't afford treatment, 53 percent lack access to treatment and 52 percent lack social support.

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