Research has shown that people who commit suicide are ambivalent about their decision to commit suicide. They do not want to end their lives, they only want to end their suffering & in that moment of great anguish, suicide seems to be the only solution to their perceived ‘insoluble’ problem.
Help & most importantly hope in any form can prevent suicide.
The thought of suicide slowly creeps on a person in their darkest moment. Being in a troubled mental state, they might consider taking their life as an out. Once the thought takes hold, the urge to act on it becomes stronger day by day, until it’s too late.
It’s a Silent Cry for Help
Those who contemplate suicide think it’s the best way to get rid of the feelings bubbling within them. For them, their problems are never-ending, and the only way to quiet their thoughts is to give in to the voice that says, “You are worthless.”. Suicide seems to be the only solution to their perceived ‘insoluble solution’
If you look closer and listen harder, you will hear their unspoken thoughts about ending their lives. They find these dark, intrusive thoughts more acceptable than sharing what’s on their mind with their loved ones.
Signs That Begin the Downward Spiral
- Talking about hypothetical scenarios of killing oneself
- Talking about having no purpose in life and feeling hopeless
- Increased drug and alcohol use
- Talking about feeling unbearable pain
- Sleeping too much or too lightly
- Talking about feeling caged and wanting to free oneself
- Talking about how they are a big burden to others
- Acting reckless, agitated, and anxious
- Feeling isolated
- Extreme mood swings
Saving someone from suicide is like giving them a new lease on life. Yes, your help will feel unwanted to them, and they might even get angry, but your job is to spot the warning signs and do everything possible to show them that you are here.
Talking it out can be difficult but know this ― you are presenting them with the opportunity to speak about their feelings without fearing they might be judged.
Here’s how to help someone who is suicidal:
- Respond Quickly During a Crisis: Talking about suicide, taking drugs, drinking too much alcohol, and being ill-tempered are all warning signs indicating suicidal tendencies. When they call you, always pick up. Make time in your schedule to reach them quickly when they are speaking in a morbid tone.
- Question Their Intent: If you are not sure about the intent of a suicidal person, ask them:
Are you thinking about suicide?
Or
Are you having thoughts of ending your life?
Asking about suicide will not make it more likely to happen. In fact, saying the words out loud can help them think over their decision, and they might come to the realization that they are making a mistake.
- Don’t Push, Offer Support: Let them know you care and assure them of your unconditional support. Listen to them without bias and judgment. Offer some form of hope by letting them know that the bad times will pass and everything will be alright.
- Remove Any Means of Suicide: Knives, recreational drugs, firearms, and razors are common ways of ending one’s life. Make sure these things are not in sight and lock your medicine cabinet to kill the temptation.
- Encourage Them to Seek Professional Help: Always be proactive when dealing with a loved one who is feeling suicidal. Offer them your kind words and unbiased opinions. Encourage them to seek help. Schedule their appointment with a trained professional & be there.