Michiganders at Risk of Suicide due to COVID-19, Says New Study
There's no doubt about it that this pandemic has affected all of our mental health but for some it's a lot worse.
A new study from Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services in Grand Rapids found that COVID-19 is having a "profound impact on the mental health of Michiganders." Certain factors all have an impact that increase the chance of suicide such as money troubles, being in isolation, increase in substance use, insomnia, and lack of community involvement.
Certain groups of Michiganders are especially at risk for a behavioral health crisis due to COVID-19’s impact, including healthcare providers, children and adolescents, older adults, the LGBTQ community, and those with autism spectrum disorder.
The study predicts that suicide rates in Michigan could increase by 32% with most to be in Wayne County with 296 deaths. Kent County is predicted to have 115 deaths due to suicide.
What's scary is that aside from the coronavirus, 1.76 million Michiganders already have a mental illness and 38% don't receive treatment. Hence, Pine Rest is encouraging, now more than ever, for residents to utilize services offered. In addition, there are ways that the healthcare providers in Michigan can take to improve and make these services readily available.
You can see the full report from Pine Rest here.
Suicide is never the answer. If you are struggling, please seek help. You can contact Pine Rest at 800-678-5500, call your doctor for a referral, or contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.