Alaska’s Division of Epidemiology issued a release this week that notes the correlation between the COVID-19 pandemic and the state’s rate of suicide, drug overdose, emergency room visits, and crisis intervention calls.
The release notes that the pandemic has been “inordinately stressful,” showing a clear rise in mental health and substance abuse disorders on a national level. On a state level, the report notes that suicide death rates remained largely consistent during the first three quarters of 2018, 2019, and this year, but that death rates were higher in 2020 compared to the previous two years.
Suicide attempt and suicide ideation rates showed an increase over last year, with a 3% increase in emergency department hospital visits for suicide ideation and an 12% increase for visits involving attempts. Overdose death rates were also higher this year compared to the prior two years.
Also, the state’s Careline had an overall increase of 22% during the third-quarter of this year compared to the rest of 2020.
The report finds that a number of factors likely contribute to these higher rates, including challenges with co-habitation, isolation, workplace issues, as well as school, any of which could exacerbate existing psychosocial stress levels.
The most important note is that it is possible to take an active role in reducing these rates by calling the Careline if someone exhibits warning signs. The CDC offers a Preventing Suicide guide that offers strategies to take to promote stronger mental health. The Careline can be reached by dialing (877) 266-4357.