Rising Suicide Rates Among Young Adults, What Care Can Really Do
By James McLemore, DNP, PMHNP-BC
TL;DR
Suicide among young adults has climbed nearly 20 percent over the past decade. Behind every number is a person who needs to be seen, heard, and helped. Careful assessment, consistent follow-up, and the right combination of therapy and medication can truly change the outcome. If you live in the Olympia or Thurston County area and you’re worried about yourself or someone you love, we can talk through next steps together.
The Big Picture
Recent reports from the CDC show a steady rise in suicide among people in their late teens and twenties. While no single cause explains it, the combination of chronic stress, loneliness, economic pressure, and untreated mental-health conditions continues to weigh heavily on this generation.
In our community, we see young adults juggling work, school, and family while trying to stay afloat emotionally. Many reach a breaking point before ever getting connected to care. Recognizing risk early—and making care easier to reach—matters more than ever.
Why Careful Assessment Comes First
Every evaluation starts with conversation. We talk through how long symptoms have been present, what makes them better or worse, and whether substances or medical issues might be playing a role.
I look at:
- Changes in mood, motivation, or interest
- Patterns of anxiety, irritability, or hopelessness
- Any history of trauma, loss, or prior suicide attempts
- Family background and available supports
The goal is not just to collect data, it’s to understand the story behind the symptoms. Once we see the full picture, we can tailor a plan that actually fits the person sitting in front of us.
When Medication Becomes Part of the Plan
Medication isn’t a cure-all, but it can stabilize mood, reduce intrusive thoughts, and make therapy more effective.
My approach is simple:
- Start with well researched options and explain them in plain language
- Adjust carefully and stay in close contact, especially early on
- Involve therapists, primary care providers, and supportive family when appropriate
- Revisit goals regularly, what’s improving, what isn’t, and what life looks like outside the clinic
The aim is to bring relief while keeping treatment flexible and collaborative.
Recognizing Warning Signs
Loved ones often notice changes before the person in distress does. Some signs to watch for include:
- Talking about being a burden or feeling hopeless
- Withdrawing from friends or isolating
- Sudden mood swings or risky behavior
- Changes in sleep, appetite, or energy
- Giving away personal items or saying goodbye unexpectedly
If you see any of these warning signs, reach out right away. You can call 988 (the national crisis line), go to the nearest emergency department, or contact a trusted professional. Acting quickly can save a life.
What You Can Do Right Now
- Reach out: Don’t wait for a crisis to ask for help.
- Stay connected: Check in with friends and loved ones who seem distant.
- Create safety plans: Know who to call and where to go if things get worse.
- Keep treatment going: Stopping therapy or medication too soon can cause setbacks.
If you live in Olympia or Thurston County, local behavioral health programs and crisis resources are available, and I can help you navigate them.
Let’s Talk
If you or someone you care about feels stuck, hopeless, or unsafe, you don’t have to handle it alone. We can work together to find the right treatment plan and rebuild hope.
📞 Call 253-417-4068
🌐 Visit jrmcmentalhealth.com
Compassionate, evidence-based care for Olympia and beyond.