5 Ways to Prevent Suicidal Thoughts

“He smashed the hotel window, climbed through the opening, hung there for a moment, and then plunged to his death four stories below. He has been depressed for the past three months. 

The facts are undeniable. Not only is suicide the third leading cause of death worldwide, but it also accounts for 13% of all the deaths of those between the ages of 10 and 24.

Every year, some 10 out of every 100,000 young people end their lives to suicide. 

Every two hours and 11 minutes, someone under 25 takes their own life.” 

Such news simply can't wait until Suicide Prevention Month comes in September. Therefore, this battle won’t be won simply, and it’ll take all of us doing our part to change how society views suicide. Let's educate ourselves about suicide prevention and help those who may be struggling to find courage, hope. 

SIGNS THAT TELL SOMEONE MAY BE SUICIDAL

All too often, however, the signs of suicidal thoughts go unrecognized or are ignored; don't let that happen in your or someone else’s world. Be on the lookout for these warning signals: 

• Talks about committing suicide or dying
• Has trouble eating or sleeping
• Exhibits drastic changes in behaviour
• Withdraws from friends or social activities
• Loses interest in school, work, or hobbies
• Gives away prized possessions
• Has attempted suicide previously
• Takes unnecessary risks
• Has recently experienced serious losses
• Seems preoccupied with death and dying
• Loses interest in his or her appearance
• Increases alcohol or drug use.
• Settles accounts 
• Thanks people for being around & talks about last meet 

And if we wonder; why does it happen? Triggers/ suicide prevention risk factors include:

• Depression
• Relationship difficulties
• Family history of substance abuse or emotional disorder
• Family violence
• Unemployment
• Social isolation
• Bullying. 

Suicide Prevention: How to help yourself and your loved ones

Suicide is a tragedy that crosses all human demographics regardless of race, religion, gender and social status. It devastates families and friends who often feel desperate sense powerlessness and profound grief in surviving the suicide of a loved one. 

What you can do to help someone who is considering suicide. If someone comes to you seeking help, be proactive-  here are 5 ways: 

• Reach Out to them - Most people with suicidal ideations want to talk about it. People who are contemplating suicide want to live – but hopelessly need someone to hear to them, their pain to offer them help to stay safe. So, don’t be hesitant to ask them if they are contemplating suicide. This shows you consider them and they’re not alone.
• Listen to them - Show compassion to them, not judgement. Allow them to reveal their feelings. Let them talk and communicate. They will usually feel a great sense of relief that someone wants to communicate to them about their deepest pain. 

• Check their safety - If you are truly worried then do not leave them apart. Dismiss any means including weapons, medication, drugs/ alcohol, sharp objects.  
• Decide the course of action - Don’t allow to keep it a secret. You can help by finding out learning on what resources and assistance are available for somebody who is considering suicide.
• Get help - Seek help from family members, community health centres. Also, a Counsellor, psychiatrist/ psychologist could help in this regard. 

What we see of suicide is just the tip of the iceberg. Many more people suffer silently. It comes to our notice when it is not treated effectively.  

Suicide prevention should be obvious to public health goals. Medicines are getting better and better at keeping depression controlled, but the enjoyment and satisfaction of everyday life are more than just "getting by" emotionally. Suicide means ending your life on purpose. Suicide prevention means making life look better than dying.

Bottom line: Be there-ever vigilant, available, informed, and non-judgmental, offering to help and helping seek out professional help. Numerous resources are available.

The following is helpful suggestions for those who are contemplating suicide:

* Reach out: Contact a trusted friend, family member social worker, medical professional

* Talk: They will not think something is wrong with you or that you are "weird" or "crazy". SHARE your suicidal thoughts and feelings, fears, anger, disappointment and sorrow.

ACKNOWLEDGE yourself that having suicidal thoughts amid other thoughts is emotionally draining and that you have shown unbelievable strength in remaining alive. REMEMBER that just because you may have suicidal ideations, you do not have to act upon the thought or feeling.

Know more about depression and suicide prevention, help someone who may be suicidal. Visit Cadabam’s Hospitals. You can also reach us on our 24/7 helpline number- +91 9741476476.