Although in many cases, suicidal thoughts or even attempts at taking your own life are related to specific disorders, it is important to focus on reducing the risk of suicide as a separate issue from other symptoms. Suicide is a very serious and complex issue that can affect not only the individual but all of the people in their life. Preventing suicide should be a primary focus for mental health care providers when caring for patients with issues of anxiety, depression, or other disorders linked with suicidal behavior.
Factors that increase suicide risk
Suicidal thoughts can’t be predictable. There are several factors that increase risk. Here are some common factors that contribute to high risk of suicide:
- Mental Health Disorders: Such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse can increase the risk of suicide.
- Trauma and Loss: Suicide thoughts can arise in response to trauma or loss of a loved one.
- Social Isolation: Loneliness and a lack of support from others can result in a feeling of isolation and overwhelm. These feelings of hopelessness can play a significant role in the development of suicidal thoughts.
- Family History: Family members who commit suicide or are exposed to suicidal behavior are at high risk for suicidal thoughts.
- Chronic Illness or Pain: A person who suffers from chronic pain or depression is also at risk of suicide, and this is an important indicator.
It is important to identify these factors at an early stage in order to prevent a tragedy. A mental health professional should be consulted for assistance if family members or friends recognize these signs of suicide.
Suicide Risk Signs and Symptoms:
The most common signs and symptoms to identify someone contemplating suicide are changes in mood, behaviour, and thoughts. It is important that friends, family members, and caregivers recognize these signs so that they can take proactive measures to create a supportive environment. Some of the key indicators to identify someone at risk of suicide are:
- Verbal expressions: When you hear statements such as I wish I wasn’t here, I wish I could die, or I can’t do it anymore, or expressing feelings of worthlessness. If you hear such a statement, contact that individual as soon as possible to avoid any potential disaster.
- Behavioural Expressions: A few examples of behavioural changes include staying away from social gatherings, giving away prized possessions, engaging in risky behaviours, neglecting self-care, etc…
- Emotional changes: There are a number of emotional expressions that can lead to suicide, such as withdrawing from friends and family, experiencing anxiety or depression, experiencing sudden mood swings, and consuming too much alcohol.
The risk of suicide can be greatly reduced if family and friends recognize these signs and symptoms. Seeking professional help is essential for those who are facing severe emotional issues.
Therapies to Reduce Suicide Risk
Therapeutic interventions can be effective at reducing the risk of suicide and maintaining the stability of a patient while they receive treatment for other issues. Interventions using cognitive behavior therapy can be especially effective at reducing suicidal behavior because they can directly target suicidal thoughts. Using CBT specifically for suicidal thoughts can have a more immediate impact than simply treating depression or other mental health issues with the belief that it will eventually reduce suicidal thoughts.
Other effective interventions include dialectical behavior therapy and mentalization-based therapy which can reduce suicidal thoughts, behavior, and habits of self-harm. Dialectical behavior therapy focuses on helping patients develop skills to start coping more effectively with stress, depression, and other issues that may lead them to contemplate suicide. Using more positive coping mechanisms can make it possible for people with suicidal thoughts to find other ways to feel that they can escape their painful feelings.
Therapeutic tactics that target suicidal tendencies can help prevent future suicide attempts and make the patient less likely to consider suicide as a solution to their problems. Separate therapy that focuses on suicidal behavior, as well as a mental health treatment for any underlying disorder, can help the patient ensure that they will have a more complete treatment. Preventing suicide is a top priority for mental health along with resolving any related symptoms.
Resources for Immediate Help
If you or someone you care about is feeling suicidal, it is crucial to seek help immediately. You can reach out to emergency services if someone is in danger by calling these numbers:
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (USA): 1-800-273-8255
- Samaritans (UK): 116 123
- Lifeline (Australia): 13 11 14
These numbers can help individual s that are feeling overwhelmed and need someone to talk to. Lifeline also provides suicide prevention services, crisis support and mental health resources.
