In a world that often moves too fast, it’s important to pause, listen, and reach out to those in need. Not everyone possesses the strength to navigate through challenges and some may struggle with feelings of despair after losing someone close to them, a failed relationship, or setbacks in their career, leading them to decide to end their life.
According to the World Health Organization, the global estimate for suicides is estimated over 7,00,000. The weight of such feelings can be overwhelming, but with the right approach, we can offer comfort, understanding, and potentially, a lifeline.
On the occasion of World Suicide Prevention Day, check out these details to understand how can you help someone with suicidal thoughts.
Possible Signs of Suicidal Behavior
While it is almost impossible to predict suicide, there are some indicators to look out for –
- Deep Sadness
- Withdrawal from Social Interactions
- Seeking forgiveness for small things
- Extreme mood swings
- Increased dependency on alcohol or other substances, etc.
Reasons for having suicidal thoughts
Suicidal thoughts often emerge when a person faces a challenging situation or continuous stress that, in their perception, lacks practical solutions. Personal issues like divorce, recent loss, unemployment, or the impact of long-standing health conditions, often tend to have such thoughts.
Also, if there is a family history of suicide, the vulnerability to these thoughts gets even higher. Moreover, psychiatric disorders like major depressive disorder, severe obsessive-compulsive disorder, or schizophrenia can escalate the presence of suicidal thoughts.
How can you help someone with suicidal thoughts?
To help someone with suicidal thoughts, you need a lot of care and understanding. Here is what you can do-
1. Avoid leaving them alone
If you sense that someone you’re with might be thinking of ending their life, make an effort to remain with them and gently suggest seeking help from a mental health professional or seeking assistance at a medical facility.
2. Evaluate the risk and stay calm
Not everyone expressing suicidal thoughts needs to be hospitalized as some may experience such ideas without acting on them. So, it’s important to act appropriately.
3. Initiate a conversation
Talking with the person having these thoughts may help them to some extent as allowing them to openly share their thoughts can be therapeutic for them.
4. Don’t Judge
Listening to what they have to say without passing unnecessary judgment is important as criticizing their feelings may only escalate the negative thoughts about themselves.
5. Express genuine concern
It’s not all about them sharing their thoughts with you but also the reassurance that you need to give them of your genuine concern and let them know that they are not alone.
6. Contact suicide prevention helplines
Encourage them to reach out to suicide prevention helplines, even if the number isn’t stored in your phone. A quick online search can provide the necessary contact information.
7. Build support network
Encourage a strong support system around them which can include family members or friends who offer non-judgmental support.
8. Monitor their access to alcohol
People with suicidal thoughts are likely to store bottles of alcohol in their houses or go to pubs very often. If they are using alcohol or narcotics as a coping mechanism, take steps to restrict their access.
