Understanding the issues around suicide and mental health is critical to participating in suicide prevention, assisting others in distress, and changing the suicide narrative.
Be Aware of the Warning Signs
Some warning signals can help you figure out whether a loved one is suicidal, particularly if the behavior is new, has increased, or appears to be linked to a traumatic incident, loss, or change.
If you or someone you know is exhibiting any of these symptoms, call the Lifeline for assistance.
Acting nervous or anxious; acting rashly
Too little or too much sleep
Withdrawing or isolating themselves is a common occurrence.
expressing fury or threatening to pursue vengeance
Mood swings that are extreme
Understand the Risk Factors
Risk factors are characteristics that increase the likelihood of someone contemplating, attempting, or dying by suicide. They can’t cause or forecast a suicide attempt, but they should be considered.
Mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and certain personality disorders are examples of mental disorders.
Alcoholism and other drug addictions
Hopelessness
Tendencies to be impulsive and/or violent
Trauma or abuse history
Physical ailments that are severe
Suicide attempt in the past (s)
Suicide has a history in my family.
Job or financial loss
Relationship breakup (s)
Access to lethal weapons is simple.
Suicide clusters in specific areas
Social isolation and a lack of social support
Asking for help has a stigma attached to it.
Healthcare, particularly mental health and substance abuse therapy, is in short supply.
Suicide is a noble conclusion to a personal crisis, according to cultural and religious traditions.
Being exposed to other people who have committed suicide (in real life or via the media and Internet.
Suicide rarely happens without warning. As a peer, you may be in the best position to recognize when a friend might need help and help them get it. You may see signs in person, hear about them secondhand, or see them online in social media. Never ignore these signs. While suicide is typically associated with the pain of mental illness (in particular depression and associated feelings of helplessness and hopelessness), there are sometimes specific situations that trigger suicidal actions such as breaking up with a boyfriend or girlfriend, failing in school, being bullied, or experiencing abuse, loss or other trauma. It is important to learn these warning signs and what to do if you see any them in yourself or a friend. Suicide is preventable. By listening, talking, and acting you could save a life.
