A Critical Conversation
Preventing suicide in the Chaldean Community
By Dr. Jason Gumma, DO
As an emergency medicine physician, I witness firsthand the devastating impact of mental health crises on individuals and families. In the Chaldean community, mental health and suicide prevention are urgent issues that require our attention and action.
Understanding Suicide
Suicide is a major public health concern. It is the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S., with nearly 800,000 people dying by suicide every year—that’s one person every 40 seconds. Suicide is when people harm themselves with the intent of ending their life, and they die as a result. It is the second leading cause of death among 15-29-year-olds globally.
According to interviews with family, friends, and medical professionals, 90% of people who die by suicide had shown symptoms of a mental health condition. It is obvious that suicide is complicated and tragic, but it is often preventable. Knowing the warning signs for suicide and how to get help can save lives.
Suicide is not a normal response to stress. Suicidal thoughts or actions are a sign of extreme distress and should not be ignored. If these warning signs apply to you or someone you know, get help as soon as possible, particularly if the behavior is new or has increased recently.
Risk Factors for Suicide
People of all genders, ages, and ethnicities can be at risk. Suicidal behavior is complex, and there is no single cause. The main risk factors for suicide are:
• Depression, other mental disorders, or substance use disorder
• Chronic pain
• Personal history of suicide attempts
• Family history of a mental disorder or substance use
• Family history of suicide
• Exposure to family violence, including physical or sexual abuse
• Presence of guns or other firearms in the home
• Having recently been released from prison or jail
• Exposure to others’ suicidal behavior, such as that of family members, peers, or celebrities
Most people who have risk factors will not attempt suicide, and it is difficult to tell who will act on suicidal thoughts. However, someone who is actively showing warning signs of suicide may be at higher risk for danger and in need of immediate attention.
Stressful life events (such as the loss of a loved one, legal troubles, or financial difficulties) and interpersonal stressors (such as shame, harassment, bullying, discrimination, or relationship troubles) may contribute to suicide risk, especially when they occur along with suicide risk factors.
Mental Health in the Chaldean Community
The Chaldean community, a tight-knit and culturally rich group, is not immune to these challenges. Chaldeans, like many other ethnic groups, face unique stressors that can impact mental health, including the pressure to assimilate while maintaining cultural identity, economic challenges, and the trauma of migration and displacement.
Unfortunately, data specifically on Chaldeans and mental health is scarce. However, studies on Middle Eastern populations in the U.S. indicate higher levels of stress and mental health issues due to these unique pressures.
Stigma and Barriers to Care
One of the biggest obstacles to addressing mental health in the Chaldean community is stigma. Mental health issues are often viewed as a sign of weakness or a source of shame. This stigma can prevent individuals from seeking help and support. Additionally, there may be a lack of awareness about available mental health services and a shortage of culturally competent providers who understand the specific needs of Chaldean patients.
Steps Toward Prevention and Support
Education and Awareness: Increasing awareness about mental health and reducing stigma are critical first steps. Community leaders, religious institutions, and healthcare providers must work together to promote mental health education and encourage open conversations about mental health.
Access to Services: Improving access to mental health services is essential. This includes training more Chaldean and culturally competent mental health professionals and ensuring that services are affordable and accessible to all community members. Project Light, for example, provides access to bilingual professional mental health counseling in a therapeutic and confidential environment. It is open to uninsured and insured Michigan residents, 13 years of age or older. Contact Project Light at (586) 722-7253.
Community Support: Building strong support networks within the community can help individuals feel less isolated and more supported. This includes fostering connections through community organizations, support groups, and social activities.
Crisis Intervention: Emergency interventions for those in immediate danger are crucial. Suicide prevention hotlines, crisis intervention teams, and emergency medical services must be readily available and well-publicized within the community. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. The Lifeline provides 24-hour, confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. Call 911 in life-threatening situations.
Addressing Underlying Issues: Addressing broader social and economic issues that contribute to mental health problems, such as unemployment, discrimination, and lack of social support, is also vital for long-term prevention.
As an emergency medicine physician, I urge the Chaldean community to prioritize mental health and suicide prevention. By breaking the silence, reducing stigma, and increasing access to care, we can create a supportive environment where individuals feel empowered to seek help and improve their mental well-being. Our collective efforts can save lives and build a stronger, healthier community for future generations.
Dr. Gumma is a board-certified emergency physician and a physician-owner of IEP (Independent Emergency Physicians). He has been recognized as a Top Doc by Hour Detroit Magazine for four consecutive years.
Warning Signs of Suicide
Warning signs that someone may be at immediate risk for attempting suicide include:
• Talking about wanting to die or wanting to kill themselves
• Talking about feeling empty, hopeless, or trapped
• Feeling unbearable emotional or physical pain
• Talking about being a burden to others
• Withdrawing from family and friends
• Giving away important possessions
• Saying goodbye to friends and family
• Putting affairs in order, such as making a will
• Taking great risks that could lead to death, such as driving extremely fast
• Talking or thinking about death often
• Displaying extreme mood swings
• Making a plan or looking for ways to kill themselves
• Talking about feeling guilt or shame
• Using alcohol or drugs more often
• Acting anxious or agitated
• Changing eating or sleeping habits
• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge