Every struggle is different. But if we know how to listen, support, and understand, we all can help prevent suicidal depression.

Suicide and Depression 

Suicide is the leading cause of death in the United States. With the numbers still rising across the country. In 2016 alone, almost forty-five thousand Americans succumbed to suicide.

However, we can prevent suicidal prevention if we know the signs of what to look for and what to do. 

Warning Signs 

People who threaten to end their lives are not just being dramatic; they are in pain. They tend to think that the only way to end the pain is to end their lives. Never dismiss their talk of suicide as just a joke. They need help, and you can help save them if you know the warning signs. 

Some of the warning signs are

• Focused on topics of death. They only talk about death and ways to die. Some people would openly discuss death with their friends. Some may even start to buy pills, knives, or even guns. 
• Isolate themselves. Some people may begin to isolate themselves and become withdrawn from people and activities they enjoyed doing before. They avoid family gatherings and don’t want to see even their friends. 
• Desperation. People with suicidal depression often speak about despair or feel worthless and just a burden to others. 
• Excessive drinks or abuse of drugs. Too much excessive drink or use of abused drugs may be their way to numb their pain.
• Mood swings. They may feel agitated, mad, or sad. Their moods are always the extreme that some people don’t easily understand what they are going through. 

Having Suicidal Thoughts 

Suicide is a severe health problem that can have lasting effects on individuals, their families, and the community they belong to. However,  suicide is actually preventable. Preventing suicide may require support groups from their families, friends, and society. 

One should be alert to the warning signs exhibited by the person who is suicidal. Everyone can help prevent suicide by learning the early warning signs, promoting resiliency, and understanding without judgment.

How to Help Someone Who Is Suicidal 

Here are the things that you can do if you observe someone with suicidal thoughts: 

Encourage Them to Talk 

People may have suicidal thoughts for various reasons. If you are worried that someone is contemplating suicide, you should encourage them to talk about it. Ask them how they are feeling. Talking to someone about their problems may help reduce the risk of ending their lives.

Listen 

As they discuss their problems with you, do not interrupt them or avoid giving your own opinions. You can help them by listening without judging. 

Never Leave Them Alone

If your friends or loved one exhibits suicidal tendencies, never leave them alone. When they are alone, there is a higher risk of hurting themselves. If you cannot be with them 24/7, ask someone to look out for them. 

Show Compassion 

Some people who have suicidal thoughts do not want to die. But instead, they want a way out of what they are going through. You can tell them that you may not know what they are going through but let them know you care for them. Never invalidate their feelings because it will only worsen their pain. 

Remove Some Objects 

Remove some objects that they can use to self-inflict harm. Remove any scissors, blades, jewelry cleaner, and other harmful poisonous materials. Please do not allow them to store these things to reduce the risk of self-harm. 

Remind them of Special People 

Remind them of the special people who cared for them. Their families, husband, and children still need their presence. Mention that these people will get hurt if they are left behind.

Avoid Being Judgemental

People who have suicidal thoughts should not be blamed for what is happening to them. What they need during a crisis is understanding. So instead of blaming them for wrong decisions, let them know that what they are going through is just a phase.

Continue to Offer Support

You may think that they are better; however, the suicidal thoughts may still linger in their minds. They are not yet as fine as they seem to be. So continue to offer your support to them. 

Even after the crisis has passed, never forget to make them feel your presence. Check on them from time to time to make your presence felt.

Ask for Assistance 

If someone is in deep crisis, you can support them by asking for assistance from trained clinicians from the National Suicide Prevention Hotline, which is open 24/7. 

If someone is already in crisis, you can also encourage them to call their mental health care provider or emergency numbers like 911.

Manage Depression With The Help of ACFMW

Our health professionals and clinicians at A Center for Mental Wellness are ready to listen, understand, and address depression and suicidal thoughts. Together with therapies and a medication management plan, we can help you survive any crisis. Visit our website or call us today to book an appointment.