Mental health is a crucial aspect of our overall well-being, and it is important that we pay attention to our emotional state and the well-being of those around us. Suicidal thoughts can be a distressing and challenging experience, but recognizing these thoughts is the first step towards seeking help and finding healing.
Understanding Suicidal Thoughts
Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone. It is important to remember that suicidal thoughts are not a character flaw or a sign of weakness. Instead, they often arise from various factors, including mental health conditions, traumatic experiences, social isolation, or overwhelming stress.
Recognizing the Signs of Suicidal Thoughts
Verbal cues
Pay attention to statements that express feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, or a desire to end one’s life. Examples include phrases like, “I can’t go on anymore,” “Life isn’t worth living,” or “I wish I wasn’t here.”
Behavioral changes
Keep an eye out for sudden and significant changes in a person’s behavior, such as withdrawal from social activities, loss of interest in hobbies or passions, increased substance abuse, giving away prized possessions, or writing letters and saying goodbye to loved ones.
Emotional indicators
Notice if someone displays persistent feelings of sadness, despair, guilt, or shame. They may exhibit extreme mood swings, anxiety, irritability, or experience a sense of being trapped or burdensome to others.
How to Support Someone Experiencing Suicidal Thoughts
If you suspect that someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, is it important to provide them with support and encourage them to seek professional help. Here are some ways you can assist:
- Offer a listening ear and allow them to express their feelings without fear of judgment or invalidation. Assure them that their emotions are valid and that you are there to support them no matter what.
- Suggest that they reach out to a mental health professional, such as a therapist, counselor, or psychiatrist. Offer to help them find resources, make appointments, or accompany them to the initial sessions if they feel comfortable with that.
- Regularly check in on them, even if they seem fine on the outside. Small gestures like sending a supportive text, inviting them for a walk, or simply being present can make a huge difference.
Self-care and Seeking Help for Yourself
Supporting someone going through suicidal thoughts can be emotionally challenging. It is important to prioritize your own mental health as well. Learn about mental health conditions, available resources, and crisis helplines in your area. This knowledge will empower you to offer better support and guidance. Reach out to a therapist or counselor to discuss your own feelings and concerns. Talking to someone who is impartial and trained in mental health can be immensely helpful. Finally, engage in activities that help you relax, rejuvenate, and replenish your own mental and emotional reserves. This might include hobbies, exercise, spending time with loved ones, or practicing mindfulness techniques.
Review
Recognizing and responding to suicidal thoughts is a critical step towards supporting someone on their path to healing. By being vigilant for signs such as verbal cues, behavioral changes, and emotional indicators, we can offer the necessary support and encourage individuals to seek professional help. Creating a safe and non-judgmental space, encouraging them to reach out to mental health professionals, staying connected, and involving their support network can make a significant difference in their journey.
About Therapist Bethany Winter, MA, LPC Barnum Counseling
Cleveland Clinic. (2021, June 18). Recognizing Suicide Behavior: Risk Factors, Warning Signs, What to Do. Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved June 9, 2023, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/11352-recognizing-suicidal-behavior
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