Suicidal Thoughts

There is no distinctive suicide victim. It happens to young and old, rich and poor. Luckily there are some common warning signs of suicide which, when acted upon, can save lives.

Suicide has been called a "permanent solution to a temporary problem." When you are feeling extremely depressed or suicidal, problems do not seem temporary, they seem overwhelming. You feel like things will never get better. But most things do get better, if you are patient, and get help for the feelings you are experiencing.

Countless people at some time in their lives think about committing suicide. Most decide to live, because they eventually come to realize that the crisis is temporary and death is permanent. On other hand, people having a crisis sometimes see their predicament as inescapable and feel an utter loss of control. These are some of the feelings and things they experience.

A suicidal person might be suicidal if he or she:

Talks about committing suicide.
Has difficulty eating or sleeping.
Experiences radical changes in behaviour.
  Withdraws from friends and/or social activities.
Loses interest in hobbies, work, school, etc.
  Prepares for death by making out a will and final arrangements.
  Gives away cherished possessions.
Has attempted suicide in the past.
  Takes unnecessary risks.
Has had recent cruel losses.
  Is worried with death and dying.
Loses interest in their appearance.
Increases their use of alcohol or drugs.


What to Do:

 How can I be helpful to someone who is threatening suicide?

Be undeviating. Talk openly about suicide.
Be willing to listen. Allow expressions of feelings. Accept the feelings.
Be non-judgmental. Don't argue whether suicide is right or wrong, or feelings are good or bad. Don't lecture on the value of life.
Get involved. Be available. Show interest and support.
Don't provoke him or her to do it.
Don't act shocked. This will put distance between you.
Don't be sworn to secrecy. Seek support.
Offer hope that alternatives are available but do not offer glib reassurance.
Take action. Remove means, such as weapons or medication.
Get help from persons or agencies specializing in crisis intervention and suicide prevention.

 

 

 

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Adultery Dissatisfaction
Anorexia Nervosa Divorce / Separation
Anxiety Gambling Addiction
Being worried Loneliness
Bulimia Nervosa Phobias
Chronic Pain Rejection
Conflict Stress
Death and Loss Suicidal Thoughts
Depression Violence
Despair    
       
       
Warning: if you have moderate depression or suicidal tendencies please seek the advice of a doctor/ therapist or dial 9-1-1.


 

 
 
 
 

 

 
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