People of any gender, socioeconomic status, race, or age may feel suicidal at any point in their life. Suicide does not discriminate. Although the cause of suicide is not limited to a single factor, many researchers and psychologists believe that certain health issues and stressors can create an experience of despair and hopelessness that eventually lead to suicide.
Depression and anxiety are the most common factors associated with suicide and are often left untreated and undiagnosed. Yet, it is crucial to note that even though most people who suffer from mental health issues go on to engage in their lives like everyone else – this does not mean that they are okay.
Here are some of the signs to look out for to recognize suicidal tendencies in a person:
Withdrawal
Avoiding friends and social activities and choosing to be alone are possible symptoms of anxiety or depression. This shouldn’t be alarming right away as people have the right to want to spend some time by themselves, but sudden withdrawal from activities that a person once loved could be a sign that something is wrong.
Self-Harm
Self-harm could be in many forms. For example, a person engaging in reckless driving, abusing drugs or alcohol, cutting themselves, or even sabotaging relationships are all signs that indicate that a person no longer values their own life.
Severe Sadness
Episodes of unexpected rage, sadness, or mood swings could be due to long periods of sadness and moodiness. Prolonged sadness could soon become the motivation for a person to take their own life.
Hopelessness
Feeling hopeless about life, future, purpose, with very little expectation for a positive change, could make a person feel utterly hopeless, especially when they have lost something like their job or someone they loved.
Recent Life Crisis
Any major life crisis can trigger a suicide attempt. This includes the death of a loved one, diagnosis of an untreatable illness, losing financial security, losing one of the six senses, etc.
Threatening about Suicide
At least 50% to 75% of people thinking about committing suicide will give away a warning sign to a friend or a family member. It may not be that obvious, though. For instance, they may say unusual things like ‘it would be better if I wasn’t here’ etc. However, not everyone who threatens suicide will follow through, but still, every threat should be taken seriously.
Sleep Issues
Sleep issues like insomnia may not be a major warning sign, but you should still consider asking the person how they’re doing and why they can’t fall asleep. It is important to know what’s going on in their heads.
Sudden Calmness
If you notice a person suddenly becoming calm (and even happy) after a long period of sadness or depression, consider it a red flag. Someone who is depressed doesn’t just change all of a sudden. There is obviously something wrong. Sudden calmness probably means that a person has decided to end their life and has made their peace with their decision.
Conclusion
A depressed person will never come to you and tell you that they are depressed. It is you who has to identify the signs and help them. Remember, if your loved one or an acquaintance is exhibiting any of these signs, you are not powerless to help them.