'Alarming Increase' In Suicides During Pandemic: DuPage Coroner

DUPAGE COUNTY, IL — The DuPage County Coroner's Office reports an "alarming increase" in suicides during the first six months of the ongoing new coronavirus pandemic. The number of suicides between January and July had increased by more than 22 percent in 2020, according to new data released by the coroner's office.

In the first six months of 2019, there were 44 suicide deaths. That number increased to 54 in the first six months of 2020. DuPage Coroner Richard Jorgensen said the majority of these suicide deaths took place during the "shelter-at-home" order, which was imposed in March.

Before the coronavirus lockdown was imposed, there were 20 suicides, which made up 37 percent of overall suicide deaths in the first six months of the year. In the months since the lockdown was imposed, there have been 34 suicides, making up a total of 63 percent of the total suicide deaths in the year's first six months.

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“It appears that an unforeseen collateral consequence of the stresses of 'Shelter at Home' which resulted in isolation, lack of community and companionship is taking its toll on the most vulnerable of our society," Jorgensen said in a news release.

Jorgensen added, "If you know of people who are at high risk: known drug users those in rehabilitation, persons living alone, having personal, financial or marital difficulty, mental health issues or depression, please reach out (you can still wear masks and social distance) and talk to them and see if they need companionship, support or help. These are difficult times made worse when an individual has mental health, depression or addiction issues. We are all in this together and need to reach out to all of those who are vulnerable in this difficult time. “

Nationwide, September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-8255. The free service is available to offer support 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.