CNMI suicide rate down 47 percent

The suicide rate in the CNMI decreased by 47 percent in 2005 compared with 2004 figures, according to a study conducted by students from the Northern Marianas College.

According to NMC teacher Sam McPhetres’ Current Issues Class, the suicide rate in the Commonwealth dropped from 34 in 2004 to 18 last year.

In a presentation early this month, group leader Kaye Christian said that, of the 18 recorded suicide cases in 2005, 11 were hospitalized for immediate treatment, while four were considered “ambulatory” and three perished.

In 2004, 20 out of 34 were hospitalized, 10 were “ambulatory” and four died, according to Christian.

The group concluded that the decline in the suicide rate is due to the regular workshops conducted by relevant government health agencies in the CNMI such as the Department of Public Health Community Guidance Center from 1992 to 2002.

According to the group, the most common methods of suicide are gunshots and hanging.

In order to support the group’s objectives in the study, Christian and other members conducted a survey among 230 NMC students last month.

The group found out that 56.8 percent of respondents have experienced depression while others are into substance abuse.

As for what to do when a friend is showing signs of committing suicide, the group suggested showing that person that they care by talking to him/her; being sympathetic, non-judgmental, patient, calm and accepting; not being afraid to ask if they are having thoughts of committing suicide; keeping them talking; and, if they have started the attempt, call for immediate help.

Christian said the early warning signs that could lead to suicide include: difficulties in their job or schoolwork, talking about suicide and death, depression, neglect of appearance, increased substance use, dropping out of regular activities and changes in sleeping habits.

Others are: Isolation of oneself from others; feeling of life as meaningless; loss of interest in activities; hopelessness; and restlessness and agitation.

Late warning signs could be: Feelings of failure; sudden improvement in mood; overreaction to criticisms; preoccupation with one’s failures; overly self-critical; collecting means to kill oneself; anger and rage; and making final arrangements.

Other late warning signs are: pessimism about life and the future, ending significant relationships, giving away possessions, inability to concentrate, having a suicide plan, preoccupation with death, and taking unnecessary risks.