Suicide Prevention: Awareness, Signs, and Support
Suicide is a universal issue that transcends all groups, affecting people and societies all over the world. It is not just a number. It is an event that sends waves of grief through families, communities, and society at large. Every time a person commits suicide, a lot of factors such as mental health problems, societal pressures, and crises are entangled in this process.
Mental health problems like depression and anxiety which generally go unnoticed may eat up a person’s soul in no time. The stigma that mental illness may bring can sometimes make it difficult for people to seek help, forcing them to suffer in silence. Nevertheless, silence breeds only more darkness, which in turn, continues the cycle of despair and hopelessness.
This Suicide Prevention Day, observed on September 10th every year, serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility to save lives and promote mental health awareness.
In this blog, we'll explore what suicide prevention entails, how to recognize signs of suicidal thoughts, strategies for addressing these thoughts, and how to support someone who confides in you about their struggles.
What is Suicide Prevention?
Suicide prevention involves taking proactive measures to reduce the risk of suicide, offer support to those in need, and raise awareness about mental health. It encompasses various strategies and interventions aimed at fostering resilience, hope, and connectedness within individuals and communities.
Suicide awareness campaigns play a vital role in educating the public about the warning signs and risk factors associated with suicidal behavior. Recognizing suicide signs early can facilitate timely intervention and support for individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts.
Signs to Watch Out For: Recognizing signs of mental health issues and mental health difficulties, including suicidal thoughts, is crucial for timely intervention.
Look out for these warning signals:
Expressing thoughts of hopelessness or despair, are common signs of depression.
Isolating oneself from friends and family, which can be indicative of mental illness.
Sudden mood swings or severe changes in behavior.
Giving away possessions or making final arrangements.
Increased substance abuse, a coping mechanism for some dealing with mental illness.
Drastic decline in academic or work performance.
Expressing feelings of being a burden to others.
How to Address Suicidal Thoughts: If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, take the following steps:
Seek Professional Help: Reach out to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, or psychiatrists.
Talk About It: Openly discuss your feelings with a trusted friend or family member.
Safety Plan: Create a safety plan that includes coping strategies and emergency contacts.
Remove Access to Harmful Means: Safely secure items that could be used for self-harm.
Stay Connected: Maintain social connections to combat isolation.
For additional insights on managing emotions and enhancing mental well-being, explore our blog "I am the Master of my Emotions: Practical Taming Tips.”
Addressing Someone Else's Suicidal Thoughts: If someone confides in you about their suicidal thoughts, follow these guidelines:
Listen Non-Judgmentally: Be empathetic and attentive without offering immediate solutions.
Encourage Professional Help: Suggest they seek assistance from a mental health professional. This is difficult to do alone, thus, it would be of big help to guide them by starting to provide free MWB helplines. It could be as simple as asking them “Have you considered seeing a therapist?”
Stay Connected: Offer your ongoing support and check in regularly.
Involve Trusted Others: If necessary, involve their close friends or family members.
Tips and Strategies to Avoid Suicidal Thoughts: Preventing suicidal thoughts requires active self-care and coping mechanisms:
Prioritize Mental Health: Regularly engage in activities that promote wellbeing, like exercise, meditation, and hobbies.
Build a Support Network: Cultivate meaningful relationships and lean on your support system. This could be done by reconnecting with old friends or checking on your parents or siblings!
Challenge Negative Thoughts: Practice cognitive-behavioral techniques to reframe negative thinking patterns. Here’s a mental wellbeing activity sheet that could help you kickstart this practice!
Seek Professional Help: Do not delay in reaching out to mental health services and consulting with a mental health expert for guidance. For a list of free mental health helpline directories, you can access them here.
In times of darkness, it's important to remember that hope is a powerful force. Even amid despair, there are rays of light that can guide us towards brighter days. Building resilience involves cultivating a mindset of optimism and finding strength in adversity. By focusing on our inner resources and tapping into our support networks, we can navigate through challenges with courage and determination.
In addition to seeking professional help, incorporating self-care practices into your daily routine is essential for maintaining mental well-being. Engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment can help alleviate symptoms of depression and reduce the risk of suicidal thoughts. Whether it's spending time outdoors, pursuing creative hobbies, or practicing mindfulness, finding activities that resonate with you can provide a sense of purpose and meaning.
Remember, self-care is not selfish—it's necessary for your overall health and happiness.
On Suicide Prevention Day, let us remember that there is hope and help available for those struggling with suicidal thoughts. It is our collective responsibility to foster a culture of compassion, understanding, and support. By raising awareness and providing assistance, we can make a significant impact in saving lives and promoting mental wellbeing. Together, we can be a beacon of hope for those in their darkest moments.