Now is the time to find out as much as we can about this scary public health problem, which is usually caused by mental illness. And it's a time to listen, offer help, and get rid of the shame that comes with having suicidal thoughts or asking for help.
Young individuals are especially at risk for suicide, which is technically the deliberate act of killing oneself. The third most common cause of death for young adults (18 to 24) is suicide. In a survey taken in 2021 by the Healthy Minds Network, college students acknowledged having suicidal thoughts 13% of the time in the previous year, with 5% having a plan and 1% actually trying. The decline in stigma associated with seeking assistance and accepting therapy is one of the few trends in mental health that is encouraging. Between 2007 and 2017, according to that same 2021 study, stigma declined by 18%.
Did you know that about 45,000 Americans commit suicide each year? The figures could potentially be higher because the stigma around mental illness discourages many people from seeking assistance. However, being aware of the warning signals may help prevent suicide attempts as well as fatalities. And one life could be saved by just asking, "Are you thinking of taking your own life?"
Suicidal feelings are caused by suffering that is more than what you can bear at the time. But keep in mind that no problem lasts forever. You can feel better and protect yourself with assistance. People overcome this; people who currently feel as terrible as you do. So, seek assistance right away. You can endure. You can take steps to alleviate the suffering and lessen the urge to commit suicide.
What causes someone to start thinking about suicide?
There are numerous factors that can lead someone to consider suicide. Age, gender, income, color, preference of religion, or sexual orientation are all insignificant factors in suicide. Someone who is contemplating suicide may be exhibiting signs of a mental condition or a number of stressors in their life. It can be the following:
- death of a loved one
- financial difficulty
- marital problems
- job loss
- health concerns;
- or some other major life transition.
10 Typical Warning Signs that Someone may be Thinking about Suicide:
1) Changes in mood
2) Giving away prized possessions
3) Organizing the affairs of death
4) Withdrawing
5) Changes in physical appearance
6) Alcohol or drug abuse
7) High-risk behaviors
8) Making declarations that are characterized by themes of helplessness, pessimism, and burdensomeness using phrases like "I want to die" or "I'm going to kill myself" as vocal
9) suicide threats
10) Self-harm
WHAT TO DO DURING THE CRISIS
a) Start following your safety plan.
Safety plans prioritize coping methods and support resources. It can help you identify your suicidal triggers and cope with them. You can protect yourself.
b) Delay in taking action
You don't have to act on your suicidal thoughts. Make a promise to yourself that you will wait at least 24 hours before acting so you can seek assistance. Don't think about the future; just concentrate on getting through today.
c) Create risk-free surroundings
Remove drugs, knives, and razors. Request reliable care. If not, choose a safe place.
d) Avoid drugs and alcohol
They can influence your thinking, emotions, hopelessness, and risk of self-harm.
e) Tell someone you can trust.
It could be a friend, family member, doctor, spiritual leader, teacher, or helpline counselor. Just talking can relieve stress and help you cope.
f) Calm yourself and do something else.
Even if few things bring you pleasure at the moment, force yourself to do the things you used to enjoy and focus your attention there.
g) Write positive things down
List your values, no matter how minor. Family, friends, pets, spirituality, everyday enjoyment, and favorite memories are examples. If you're contemplating suicide, read the list.
h) List down your goals
You may wish to travel, read a book, buy a pet, move, start a hobby, volunteer, go back to school, or have a family. Set goals.
WHAT TO DO ONCE THE CRISIS HAS PASSED
a. Get continuous guidance
Extreme emotional suffering can traumatize. Medication, support, and psychotherapy can help. Consult your doctor.
b. Determine your triggers.
Triggers cause depression and suicidal thoughts. Alcohol, relationship stress, and loss of anniversaries are examples. Knowing them ahead of time will help you manage and obtain help.
c. Make a safety plan
Safety plans are emergency procedures. Put it on your phone, fridge, or bedroom door. Use our safety plan or the phone app of the future.
d. Plan out your days.
This includes getting up, showering, walking around the block, and cooking a healthy lunch. Even when you feel out of control, keep to your schedule.
e. Create new interests
Discover meaningful hobbies, volunteer work, or work. Doing things you enjoy will boost your self-esteem and save you from sadness.
f. Take care of yourself
Sleep and eat well. Exercise releases endorphins, reduces stress, and boosts mood.
g. Make friends and connections.
Even if you're not in the mood, socialize. Befriend excellent people. Your positivity and recovery will increase as you invest in others and your community.
h. Control your stress.
Find stress-reduction methods. Soothe & distract, exercise, meditate, perform easy breathing exercises, and question self-defeating ideas.
You might find it helpful to read this article again when you're feeling down, to print it out and carry it with you, or to post a copy of it someplace that's easily accessible, like the refrigerator. Whatever helps you get through this most effectively is what you should do.
REFERENCES:
www.healthpartners.com/blog/suicide-prevention/
www.speakingofsuicide.com/2020/01/10/passive-suicidal-ideation/