Suicide: Understanding the Signs
The fierce Mental Health Movement has been a blessing in its own, but what happens next when we sense that a loved one is seriously struggling? Knowing the warning signs that someone is inching towards the edge of a suicidal attempt can mean the difference between life and death, and as we know, these attempts can leave a rippling affect for generations and throughout communities. Suicide is something that has never discriminated; We see it with public figures, in our schools, and even in homes. Every culture, country, wealth bracket, and age group experiences these tragedies.
Now that we’ve broken the mental health stigma, now what? Lets cover what to be aware of in sudden changed behaviors of a loved one.
Behavior Red Flags of Suicide:
Sign 1. They’re Giving Away Their Possessions
Gifting away one’s material items can be a completely normal thing to do, but it can also be an indicator that someone is no longer planning to stick around. Pay special attention if someone is giving away their prized possessions, as well as the quantity of personal items that they are gifting away.
Sign 2. They’re No Longer Making Plans and Goals for the Future
Talking about future goals is a good indicator that someone is motivated to keep moving forward. If you notice that your loved one stops discussing their future goals, it might be time to ask if they have any, and what those goals look like.
Sign 3. They’re Sleeping or Isolating Themselves More Than Usual
Maybe someone’s tired from work, school or being a parent- but paying closer attention to someone's sleep and social patterns can be a good indicator of how someone’s doing mentally.
Sign 4. They’re Engaging in Extremely Risky Behavior
Noticing behavior change also includes being aware if someone is becoming more careless and impulsive. A little bit of thrill is fun and normal, and if you know the personal well enough, you might be able to spot if they’re becoming more reckless when it comes to drugs, sex, alcohol, stunts/driving, and money. This can be a cause for concern.
Sign 5. Expressing That They Don’t Want to be a Burden, or Showing Hopelessness
Signs that someone is feeling hopeless, or not wanting to be a burden to others, can be a sign that someone is in a troubled place. Pay attention if your loved one is open to support and relationships outside of themself. Isolation can bring someone into a darker place than where they already are.
Sign 6. Apathy
Showing signs that one no longer has concern for anything is not usually a good sign.
Sign 7. Loss of Interest in Once Loved Hobbies and Activities
Are they still engaging in hobbies that make them happy, or have they stopped doing the things that they love? This can be a tell-tale sign of a depression, with the potential of leading to a darker place.
Sign 8. Extreme Mood Swings That Are Out of Character
A series of high highs, and low lows are a sure tell sign that someone is in need of more support and love. Pay attention to sudden and frequent crying, or even being easily agitated and having outbursts.
Sign 9. An Uptick in Relationship Conflicts
Are they nurturing their relationships, or are they neglecting them and even finding themselves in more conflict with others?
Sign 10. Intense Worrying or Fear
Some anxiety is good for us, and in fact, keeps us alive. If you’re noticing an uptick in worry, paranoia, and a level of anxiety that interferes with a loved one’s day-to-day life… it might be time for them to seek more professional help.
Sign 11. Significant Weight Loss or Gain
It’s not uncommon to either lose one’s appetite when stressed, or to use food as coping. Signs of mental distress can sometimes be emotional, as well as physical.
Sign 12. Drastic Change in Behavior or Personality
Any drastic behavior, or personality change, should be taken into account when determining if someone is struggling with their mental health.
Sign 13. Seeking a Way Out, or Obtaining a Lethal Weapon
Expressing that one wants to escape, or if they are talking about obtaining a weapon should be taken very seriously.
Sign 14: They Express That They Want to Die
Any and all threats and talk of suicide should be taken seriously.
Sometimes people don’t always show signs of suicidal ideation to the outside world, but knowing some signs to look for can help when a loved one is in crisis or on the verge of crisis. If you are looking for some resources to help a loved one in distress, you can find professional resources here.
And remember. take care of yourself as you’re supporting someone with their mental health.
**This article is no way intended to diagnose or treat anyone’s mental health. If you or someone you know is struggling, call 911 for an emergency, or check out professional resources here.