Depression is a serious illness that can have a profound impact on an individual’s emotional and physical well-being. If left untreated, it can lead to suicidal thoughts and behaviours. Suicide is a prevalent phenomenon worldwide, accounting for 1.3% of all deaths globally in 2019. In the United States, suicide is the 12th leading cause of death, with 45,979 deaths reported in 2020.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over 700,000 people die by suicide every year, which is one person every 40 seconds. Suicide rates are highest among individuals aged 25-34 and 75-84, with men being more likely to commit suicide than women. Recognizing the warning signs of depression and suicide is critical in combating these issues. Here are six ways to determine if your friends and loved ones are suicidal:
1. They Distance themselves from the Society
People who are struggling with suicidal thoughts often experience feelings of isolation and disconnection from others. They may believe that they don’t belong in society or that others would be better off without them. This can lead them to withdraw from social interactions and avoid gatherings, even if they’re invited.
In some cases, being in public or around others can escalate their feelings of anxiety, making them feel like they just want to be alone. It’s not that they don’t want to be around others; they just don’t feel like they belong.
If someone you know is behaving this way, you must approach the situation with compassion and understanding. Here are some ways you can help:
- Listen without passing judgment and allow them to express their emotions and thoughts without interruption or criticism.
- Acknowledge their feelings and reassure them of your support.
- Urge them to get expert assistance from a mental health specialist, like a counsellor or therapist.
- Tell them they can rely on you for support and that you are there for them.
- Encourage them to stay in touch with their loved ones, even if it’s only by text or phone call.
Don’t forget that suicidal thoughts are frequently a sign of underlying mental health conditions like trauma, anxiety, or depression. People can recover and live fulfilling lives if they receive the necessary support and treatment.
2. Withdrawal from Social Connections
Depression can be a major isolator, causing people to pull away from social connections. They might start declining invites, ignore calls and messages, or seem checked out of conversations. It’s like they’re disappearing into thin air, and it’s often a sign that they’re struggling. Being aware of these changes in loved ones is key, as it’s usually a cry for help, even if they’re not saying it out loud.
3. Withdrawal from Conversations
When someone’s struggling with suicidal thoughts, they might withdraw from conversations, responding briefly and superficially, and avoid engaging in meaningful discussions. They may seem disconnected and uninterested in talks, giving short or monosyllabic answers, and stop initiating conversations or interactions.
If you notice a loved one becoming increasingly distant or preoccupied, it’s crucial to reach out and start a conversation to check in on their well-being.
4. Decline in Personal Hygiene
People who are experiencing suicidal thoughts may also exhibit poor sanitation practices, wear the same clothes over and over again, and keep their surroundings messy. They may also stop grooming, ignore household chores, and show a general lack of interest in their appearance and living space.
This decline in self-care can be a red flag, indicating a deeper emotional struggle. If you notice a loved one’s hygiene standards dropping or their living space becoming disorganized, it’s essential to intervene and offer support without delay.
5. Frequent Reaching Out
If someone is having suicidal thoughts, they may send short, harmless messages to people they care about over and over again, almost as a test or a cry for help. They might keep doing this even after receiving encouraging answers, which would suggest underlying distress. If a loved one acts this way, it’s important to go deeper and offer real support to ease their emotional pain. They are suffering inside, you just don’t know it.
6. Indirect Goodbyes
Suicidal thoughts can cause someone to act differently, communicate with loved ones in a way that seems final, or say goodbye in an indirect manner. This could be subtly conveying an apology for past wrongdoings, giving advice on future conduct, leaving other subliminal clues, or even planning their affairs.
Additionally, they may make arrangements that appear inconsistent with their character or give away valuable items. It’s critical to act quickly if you see these symptoms because they may be precursors to a suicide attempt.
Conclusion
We have probably all come across someone who is experiencing suicidal thoughts in one form or another. Many people who feel suicidal were once happy but felt let down by family and society. There are times when suffering can’t be seen, so it’s important to recognize and help those who need it.
When someone is having suicidal thoughts, it’s critical to understand their pain and help them. Ensure that they feel appreciated and heard, and direct them to a suicide prevention center. What you do might be the only thing that keeps them alive. You can potentially save a life and make a difference by following these steps.
Makewetalknow 
Leave a comment