Suicide, the act of taking ones own life, is an all-too-common and tragic
public health crisis nowadays, often committed to cope with intense emotional
pain. Suicide is particularly tragic because it is a preventable death and
leaves behind many loved ones and family members, also known as "suicide
survivors", who have to suffer this terrible loss.
Suicidal ideation or suicidal thinking is much more common than most people
have – in fact, most people have thought about suicide at one point or
another. These thoughts are quite troubling, especially as they are usually
accompanied by a mental illness such as depression or
bipolar disorder
.
It is critical to know how to recognize and identify signs that a person may
be considering suicide.
Warning signs of suicidal thoughts include sudden shifts in mood or
activity, like speaking or moving quickly or slowly, and persistent
feelings that life has no purpose.
Expressing a desire to end one's life or harm oneself, or making plans to
do so, are urgent indicators to seek help immediately.
Talking or writing about death, preparing for self-harm, or discussing
methods like medication or weapons are signs that require urgent
intervention.
- Drinking more alcohol or use drugs, including prescription drugs.
-
When do not want to see people any longer and you want to be alone a lot.
- Do not take care of themselves or follow medical advice.
- Give away their stuff and/or hurry to complete the will.
-
Experiencing
depression,
panic attacks
, impaired concentration
- Increased isolation, talking about being a burden to others.
-
Knowing, identifying, or being associated with someone who has committed
suicide.
Note: Warning signs are not always apparent and can differ from person to
individual. Many people are straightforward about their thoughts, while others
can hide about suicidal thinking and feelings.
Prevention
The National Institute for Mental Health (NIMH) suggests the following tips
for helping someone who may be going through a crisis:
-
Inquire openly whether they are contemplating suicide, as studies confirm
this does not raise the risk.
-
Maintain a safe environment by staying with them and taking away potential
tools for suicide, like sharp objects.
- Listening to them and being there for them.
-
Encouraging them to call a helpline or contacting someone the individual
might turn to for support, for example, a friend, family member, or
spiritual mentor or
Therapist
-
Following up with them after the crisis has passed, as this appears to
reduce the risk of a recurrence.
If you are thinking about suicide or you know someone who feels suicidal, some
suicidal people do not display such symptoms and some warning signs may not be
apparent people who feel suicidal can try to hide or say they are all right,
learn signs about suicide alert and get treatment and support.
We are not a medical service or suicide prevention helpline. If you are
feeling suicidal, we suggest you immediately call a suicide prevention
helpline - e.g. Vandrevala Foundation Helpline - 1 860 266 2345 (24x7), Aasra
- +91 22 2754 6669 (24x7).