It might be particularly difficult to recognize when someone could be considering suicide. Some individuals will express their concerns verbally or exhibit outward indications that they are at risk. Many people make an effort to keep their suicidal thoughts and intentions hidden from others.
Anyone who notices one or more of the warning signals listed below, or merely has a suspicion that a loved one may be considering suicide, should reach out as it is difficult to know what is going on in another person’s thoughts. Given the widespread apprehensions, studies consistently show that asking someone if they are thinking about suicide would not introduce the thought if it was not already present.
Typical Red Flags
Untrained eyes may not always be able to discern a person’s intentions when they are trying to conceal their suicidal thoughts. However, there are numerous visible symptoms that someone is considering suicide, and getting aware of these signs, particularly the more subtle ones, might help someone spot a loved one who might be in danger. Suicidal behavior frequently exhibits the following warning signs:
- Individual writes a will, donate their personal belongings, or make an effort to organize their affairs.
- Describes feeling “stuck,” unproductive, or as if there is no reason to continue living.
- Searches for ways to hurt oneself, like how to get a gun or get access to harmful drugs.
- The individual does too much or too little sleep.
- Eats excessively or too little.
- Exhibits depressive symptoms or substantial mood fluctuations.
- Makes angry, nervous, or hostile gestures.
- Spends more time alone than normal and avoids everyone, even loved ones.
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Some people, who may not show any symptoms and may even seem to be in good health on the outside, commit suicide on the spur of the moment or in response to a significant and unexpected stressor. Sadly, some people may go to great efforts to conceal their suicidal thoughts from loved ones or close acquaintances, even if they have been organizing their suicide attempt for weeks or months. For those left behind, these deaths can be especially devastating. It is not unusual to feel terrible remorse or like one should have known that one’s loved one was in such misery. It is crucial to keep in mind that, even if nobody is to blame for another person’s suicide, it is never shameful to seek assistance if you are experiencing overwhelming sadness or regret.
Suicidal Thoughts and Getting Help
Being aware of suicidal thoughts or actions in oneself or a loved one may be incredibly terrifying, and many people are unsure of how to react when they become aware that they or someone they know is seriously considering killing themselves. It is crucial to keep in mind that assistance is available at all times and that talking to someone about suicidal thoughts or actions can save a life. Even when the risk of death seems remote, mental health specialists advise taking immediate action in the face of suicide ideation.
It is worrisome and perplexing to notice warning indications of suicidal behavior or thoughts in a loved one or to learn that they are planning to hurt themselves shortly. However, aid is always available, and all the options, such as crisis centers, or local emergency services, that are available to people in crisis are also available to their loved ones. Reaching out to one of them could help save your loved one’s life.
After the acute crisis has passed, you might want to encourage or assist your loved one in seeking long-term mental health care.
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