Health Beats: Suicide

 Hello Rochester, this is Nurse Bowick. Have we got something to talk about? Oh Yeah.

This week we wrap up our men’s health series with a closer look at Black men and suicide. Suicide is a serious public health issue, and men represent nearly 80% of all suicides. When Don Cornelius the founder of Soul Train took his life, we were reminded of the lasting harmful effects suicide has on Black families, individuals and communities.

Suicide, the act of taking one’s own life on purpose, was once thought of as something that Black People just didn’t do. Historically, the rate of suicide in Blacks compared to other groups was lower. However, current research suggest a disturbing paradigm shift. A study published in JAMA Pediatrics (2015) suggesting a rise in Black boys committing suicide, and recent reports suggesting a decline in Black men committing suicide, has prompted the Black family to gain a better understanding of suicide, increase awareness and learn suicide prevention methods.

In light of conflicting and often confusing statistics, the question still remains unanswered,  why are Black boys and Black men killing themselves? Twenty years ago Reverend Cecil Murray answered this question as such, “Despair is increasing, and that despair is economic, political, educational and social. The breakdown of the family leaves the young adult male without a hands on mentor. America is getting angrier and meaner, and those without an economic base find an outlet in self destructive behavior.”   Sadly, his response is still applicable today.

Folks, the undeniable links to suicide appears to be poverty and depression, and were gonna talk about it Tuesday morning at 7:15 on Health Beats with the Wake-Up Club on 103.9 WDKX.

 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline1-800-273-TALK (8255), available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The service is available to anyone. All calls are confidential.  

Theresa Lou Bowick BSN,

RNRegistered Professional Nurse

Doctor of Nursing Practice Student