suicidal ideations

Suicidal ideations, or thoughts of suicide, are a serious mental health concern that can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States, and it’s important to be aware of the signs and risk factors so that we can help those in need.

One of the first signs of suicidal ideations is a change in mood or behavior. Someone who is struggling with suicidal thoughts may become withdrawn, anxious, or depressed. They may also lose interest in activities that they previously enjoyed, and they may have difficulty sleeping or eating.

Suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States, with 45,979 deaths in 2020. This is about one death every 11 minutes. The number of people who have thoughts about suicide is even higher with 12.2 million adults.

Center for Disease Control Statistics 2020

Another sign of suicidal ideations is a change in language or communication. Someone who is contemplating suicide may talk about feeling hopeless, worthless, or helpless. They may also express a desire to die or to harm themselves. They might also make comments about not being around anymore, or how their loved ones would be better off without them.

Additionally, someone with suicidal ideations may begin to make preparations for their death. This can include giving away possessions, making a will, or making plans to end their life.  When you notice signs be kind and ask questions.

MYTH : Suicide happens to other families.
We’re from a well to do family and stuff like suicide only happens to people from dysfunctional families, not families like ours.

FACT : Suicide is not discriminatory and can happen to any family, regardless of social status, gender, financial status, education, divorce, religion, or popularity.

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People made a plan to commit suicide.

There are several warning signs that someone may be experiencing suicidal thoughts.  Let us look at these in a little more detail.   Any one or a combination of these behaviors that you notice, and they are not normal or typical for a person could be a sign that help is needed. Here are a few common signs to look out for:

    • Talking about wanting to die or hurting oneself – This can include expressing a desire to end one’s life, making statements about feeling hopeless or helpless, or talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.
    • Talking about feeling like a burden to others – Someone who is experiencing suicidal thoughts may express feelings of being a burden to friends and family or may talk about not wanting to be alive anymore.
    • Increased use of alcohol or drugs – Someone who is contemplating suicide may turn to alcohol or drugs as a means of coping.  Substance abuse can increase the risk of suicide.
    • Withdrawing from friends and family – Someone who is struggling with suicidal thoughts may begin to withdraw from social activities and may become isolated.  Isolation increases feelings of loneliness and a lack of connection.
    • Changes in mood or behavior – People who are experiencing suicidal thoughts may become anxious, depressed, or agitated. They may also lose interest in activities that they previously enjoyed, and they may have difficulty sleeping or eating.
    • Making preparations for death – Someone who is contemplating suicide may begin to make preparations for their death, such as giving away possessions, making a will, or making plans to end their life.

It’s important to understand that not everyone who experiences suicidal ideations will show these signs. Sometimes, people are able to hide their feelings very well, and it’s up to us to be aware of the risk factors and to have open and honest conversations with our loved ones and seek professional help if we suspect that someone is struggling with suicidal thoughts.

If you suspect that someone you know is considering suicide, there are several steps you can take to help them.  Approaching someone who is suicidal with compassion and understanding can make a significant difference in their well-being. Here are some steps to consider when approaching someone who may be suicidal:

    • Express your concern – Let the person know that you care about them and that you are there to support them. Ask them directly if they are having thoughts of suicide and listen to what they have to say without judgment.
    • Stay with them – If someone is in immediate danger, stay with them and do not leave them alone. Remove any firearms, knives, or other potentially harmful objects from their immediate environment.
    • Avoid judgment – People who are considering suicide often feel overwhelmed, hopeless, and helpless. Avoid judgment, and instead offer understanding and compassion.
    • Ask directly about suicide – If you suspect that someone is considering suicide, it’s important to ask them directly. Ask them if they have had thoughts of ending their life and listen to their response.
    • Offer hope – Let the person know that things can get better, and that there is help available. Offer to support them in getting the help they need and let them know that you will be there for them.
    • Encourage them to seek professional help – Offer to help the person make an appointment with a mental health professional or offer to go with them to their appointment. Encourage them to call a crisis helpline, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK), for support.
    • Be a good listener – Listen to what the person is saying and let them express their feelings. Let them know that you are there for them, and that you care about what they are going through.
    • Offer hope and support – Let the person know that there is help available and that things can get better. Offer to support them in their recovery and let them know that you will be there for them.
    • Take care of yourself – Supporting someone who is considering suicide can be emotionally draining, so it’s important to take care of yourself, too. Seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional if you need it.

Remember, suicide is a preventable tragedy, and there is always hope. By being there for someone who is struggling and encouraging them to seek help, you can make a positive impact in their life and help them through a difficult time.