Do you feel like someone close to you is thinking about suicide? What can we do if we have suicidal thoughts? Find out how to deal with it and prevent it.
Suicidal thoughts are those in which a person considers taking their own life. Although there is no unanimous medical definition of “suicidal ideation,” some people believe it involves active planning of suicide, while others see suicidal ideation and thoughts as equivalent concepts, with planning as a separate step.
More and more people are thinking about taking their own lives. Fortunately, proper support and treatment can prevent suicide . Helping people put these thoughts aside and find well-being in their lives. But what signs can indicate that someone is thinking about suicide? And what can we do about it?
Signs Someone Is Having Suicidal Thoughts
In many cases, people who are thinking about suicide exhibit a number of signs that can help us prevent this act. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the warning signs of suicide, which may include:
- Intense sadness or bad mood: feelings ofsadnesspersistent, mood swings and unexpected anger.
- Despair: feeling that the future is bleak and that nothing can improve.
- Sleep problems: difficulty sleeping or sleeping excessively.
- Sudden Calm: A sudden change in a calm state may indicate that the person has decided to commit suicide.
- Isolation: Avoiding friends and social activities, losing interest in things they used to enjoy.
- Changes in personality or appearance: changes in behavior or neglect of personal appearance.
- Dangerous or self-destructive behaviors: such as reckless driving, drug or alcohol use, or risky sexual behavior.
- Recent crises: Events such as the loss of a loved one, financial problems, or the diagnosis of a serious illness can act as triggers.
- Making preparations: Putting personal affairs in order, giving away one’s possessions, or writing a suicide note.
- Talking about suicide: mentioning it directly or indirectly is an important signal.
If you see any of these signs, it is important to consult a professional psychologist or call emergency services .
Why might a person have suicidal thoughts?
There are many different reasons why some people may have suicidal thoughts . However, there are some common factors that may be related to suicidal ideation:
- Mental or physical health problems: People who are going through a hard time due to a physical or mental condition are more likely to suffer from suicidal tendencies.
- Financial Difficulty: Being in a difficult economic period can also mean having suicidal thoughts. Especially if you add to this, among other factors, the lack of work or the inability to pay for housing.
- Trauma related to abuse or bullying: People who have had a traumatic experience in their childhood or adolescence related to abuse or bullying may be more likely to think about suicide.
- Drastic changes in relationships: Even experiencing a sudden separation or the death of a family member or loved one can end up causing suicidal tendencies.
- Extreme stress: thestressexperienced in a chronic and recurrent way can also involve a factor linked to suicidal thoughts.
You should keep in mind that while these are some of the most common causes, they are actually not the only factors that can contribute to thinking about suicide .
I’m having suicidal thoughts: what can I do?
There are many actions we can take to reduce the risk of suicidal thoughts :
- Don’t ignore the warning signs: If someone around you or you have thoughts related to death or suicide, it is important that you contact a psychologist immediately. These thoughts imply that there is a problem that affects you more than you realize and that needs to be treated urgently.
- Talk about it : If you are thinking about suicide, talk to someone close to you that you trust. Even though it is difficult to communicate these situations, your loved ones will be there for you if you feel bad and need help.
- Focus on self-care: If you feel like you are going through a tough time, it is important to make yourself a priority. Put everything else aside and focus on feeling good. This can include taking care of your diet, exercise, and making time for yourself.
- Identify triggers: Look for factors or circumstances that may be causing suicidal feelings. When you identify these triggers, it is important to try to avoid or cope with them as best you can.
- Keeppresentthat feelings are temporary: When faced with suicidal thoughts, it is important to always keep in mind that feelings and emotions are not permanent. That is, even when life may seem hopeless, you can always improve and feel better. When you have moments of emotional despair, try to cope with them with something you know puts you in a good mood: talking to a friend, listening to your favorite music, watching a funny movie, or any hobby that helps you cope with these feelings.
- Relax: In many cases, stress can be one of the factors that can contribute to you experiencing suicidal thoughts. So, if you are in a period where you are experiencing a lot of stress, try to find all the ways that are helpful for you to relax.
Find personal ways to relieve your stress levels. In addition to exercise, you can meditate, use sensory strategies to relax, practice simple breathing exercises, and challenge self-destructive thoughts to help you overcome suicidal thoughts.
If you know someone who is having suicidal thoughts , it is important to encourage them to seek professional help and to be there for them during this difficult time. Remember that both early intervention and the right support can make a big difference.