Did you know that we lose over 800,000 people a year to suicide? What we know, is that suicide is not caused by one event. There are multiple factors that go into a person’s decision to take their life. Becoming familiar with risk factors and warning signs may help us to help a loved one through a tough time.
We get it…this is hard. Suicide is real, and it impacts so many lives. We’ll break this down into hard core facts, and how to connect with a friend or loved one who may be suicidal.
Here are some tips on what to look for. Also remember, if you or a loved one has ever considered suicide, you are not alone, and you are loved.
Let’s Talk Hard Core Facts:
Risk factors are characteristics that can show us if a person is more likely to consider, attempt, or die by suicide. Although risk factors cannot cause or predict a suicide attempt, they’re important to be aware of when supporting a loved one you think may be suicidal. Risk factors include, but are not limited to:
- Stressful life events: Loss of relationship, divorce, job loss, trauma
- Lack of social support and sense of isolation
- Stigma associated with asking for help
- Lack of healthcare, especially mental health and substance abuse treatment
- Exposure to others who have died by suicide (in real life or via the media and Internet)
- Family history of suicide
- Mental health challenges – ie. depression, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, certain personality disorders
- Alcohol and other substance use disorders
- Hopelessness
- Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies
- Easy access to lethal means
- Serious physical health conditions
- Previous suicide attempt(s)
Warning Signs are behaviors that you may see that raises concern about whether a loved one is at risk for suicide. Pay specific attention if the behavior is new, has increased, or seems unusual to their norm. If you or someone you know exhibits any of these, it is important to check in on that person and seek help. Some warning signs include:
- Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself
- Looking for a way to end one’s life
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no purpose
- Talking about feeling trapped or being in unbearable pain
- Talking about being a burden to others
- Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
- Acting anxious, agitated, or reckless
- Sleeping significantly more or less than typical for that person
- Withdrawing or Isolating self
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
- Displaying extreme mood swings.
- Giving away their valuable items
- Changes in appearances (weight gain/loss)
Let’s Talk Connection:
We know that it can be scary when a friend or loved one is experiencing suicidal thoughts. We help through connection. Understand your capacity to help, and offer support the best way you can. Focus on helping them feel heard, seen, and supported. To help a friend or loved one in a crisis, consider the following tips:
- Be direct. Talk openly and ask if they are thinking about suicide (this will not put the idea in a person’s head)
- Be willing to listen. Allow them to express their feelings.
- Be non-judgmental. Remember to listen and support them as best as you can.
- Get involved. Show interest.
- Send text reminders or calls: “I’m thinking of you”, “I’m here for you”, “You are not a burden”, or “I love you”
- Offer hope and provide alternative resources.
- Take action. Remove any lethal means such as weapons or pills.
- Seek help from people, therapists, and agencies specializing in suicide prevention
- Connect with NAMI Charlotte’s suicide hotline at (800) 237 TALK or 800 SUICIDE
By using the above tips, we can help ourselves and others out of a difficult time in their lives. If you or a loved one is experiencing loneliness or a depressed mood, do not be afraid to seek help. Here at Isaiah Counseling & Wellness, we have several therapists who are here to support you. If you would like more information about receiving counseling, give Isaiah Counseling & Wellness a call today!
