Suicide is the act or an instance of taking one’s own life voluntarily and intentionally. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, in 2014, an estimated 42,773 American died by suicide. However, this counts only those who were successful. In 2014, approximately 494,169 people visited hospitals injuries due to self-harm.
Suicide is a permanent answer to what is often a temporary problem. Those who actually attempt suicide typically no longer believe they can solve their problems or ease their pain and see it as their only answer.
Because of the stigma surrounding suicide, knowing the signs, symptoms, and what to do if you believe your loved one is considering suicide can play an important role in prevention.
Signs and Symptoms of Depression It is normal to experience any one or more of these symptoms. However, if the behavior lasts for more than two weeks it should be treated as a possible sign of suicidal feelings.
Insomnia
Excessive sleeping, daily fatigue, loss of energy
Headache, stomach ache
Changes in appetite and weight
Weakness, dizziness
Changes in personal appearance, attitude or personality
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Unwillingness to communicate
Use of alcohol or other drugs
Depression, moodiness
Loss of interest in activities
Spending time alone
Running away from home
Aggression, violence, emotional outburst
Constant complaints of minor aches and pains
Giving away possessions
Participating in risk-taking or self-destructive behavior
Talk of suicide
Psychological Signs
Lack of self-esteem or self-worth
Feelings of worthlessness
Depression, irritability
Feelings of inappropriate guilt
Feelings of hopelessness, inner turmoil
Feeling that most things are overwhelmingly difficult
Feelings of isolation (with family and friends)
Inability to maintain a close relationship
Inability to resolve problems
Inability to accept the loss of death of a loved one
Lack of emotional balance
Recurrent thoughts of death and suicide
What to do
Always take anyone, even children, seriously if they talk about suicide. Talking about suicide is the first visible sign and should never be shrugged off as a need for attention. Suicide is serious and often preventable if the behaviors are recognized.
Ask directly: “Are you thinking about killing yourself?” This does not mean you are encouraging the action, rather that you are willing to listen and help.
Talk about it. Ask for details if you think that plans have already been made.
Be a good listener. Listen with eyes as well as ears, and look for nonverbal signs such as hand motions, facial expressions, and moods. Never act shocked, disgusted or make moral judgments.
Avoid giving advice. Try not to provide solutions or tell the person to “stop letting things bother you so much”, “not to feel that way” or “how lucky he is”. Listen, do not give opinions.
Show that you are there to talk and listen. Reassure the person that people care about what happens to him or her. Show unconditional love.
Seek professional help. A suicidal person needs professional advice and counseling. Breaking confidences is not disloyal, especially if it saves someone’s life.
Avoid leaving the person alone. Especially if there is any immediate danger.
Firearms accounted for nearly 50% of suicides in the United States in 2014. Therefore, it is important to take extra precautions if someone you know is thinking about or has attempted suicide. Lock away guns and keep ammunition separate from the firearm, and store pills securely or dispose of them properly.
If you discover someone who has attempted suicide, treat the situation as a medical emergency and get help immediately.
