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Editor's Note: With all that's going on in our lives and nation today it's no surprise that many people, and this may include you, are overwhelmed, anxious, and/or depressed. If not addressed these feelings and emotions, could lead to thoughts of suicide. Our guest blogger Sara Bailey gives us some warning signs that should not be ignored.
Approximately 60% of all suicides in the US are related to depression, some form of mental illness, or substance abuse. All of these issues can be treated or managed, which can make suicide avoidable if proper care is instituted. Core triggers aside, Faith is the Evidence wants to share some key warning signs that indicate you may be on the verge of taking your life and should seek help immediately.
Before getting into specific symptoms, these are two major core triggers that can prompt suicide:
1. You Already Have A Problem With Substance Abuse
Numerous studies reveal that there is a consistent connection between substance abuse and suicide because of increased feelings of depression and rage — two other major warning signs. Individuals with a drug or alcohol problem are six times more likely to attempt suicide than those who are not addicted. Even if you haven’t had suicidal thoughts yet, facing your addiction and entering therapy is crucial regardless, so seek help immediately.
2. Your Family Has A History Of Suicide
Research suggests that genetics can play a role in whether or not someone has suicidal thoughts. This could be linked to mental illness, substance abuse, or depression issues within the family history. If you’re already suicidal, call or visit a crisis center. If you’re concerned that something genetically might affect you later on, consider talking to a therapist to help you work through any concerns or stressors in your life that might trigger suicidal thoughts. Interestingly enough, suicide can be contagious, which is why prevention groups often discourage the media to provide details as to avoid sensationalism of the act.
If you know that you are genetically predisposed to depression, mental illness, or suicidal thoughts, consider talking to your doctor about antidepressants. No OTC depression medication is as effective as what your doctor can prescribe to you, and it is better to be preventative if you feel yourself falling into that genetic predisposition.
Major Warning Signs
The potentially confusing thing about the warning signs and symptoms of suicide is that some of them may seem like normal acts — such as giving something away for example. It’s not uncommon to be a generous person who likes to make people happy. The key is looking at the signs as a whole. If you’re already having suicidal thoughts, then seek immediate help, don’t wait for another red flag. However, the following are important for anyone contemplating taking their life, as well as friends, family, loved ones, and coworkers who may be concerned about someone having a tough time:
- You’re having strong feelings about wanting to die or wanting to kill yourself
- Feeling hopeless and having no reason to live
- You’re frequently talking or thinking about death
- You’ve made a plan to kill yourself such as purchasing a weapon or researching methods
- Feeling guilty and shameful
- You have extreme mood swings — one minute you’re happy, the next minute you’re sad and crying
- You’ve made it a point to withdraw from family and friends
- Feeling insufferable emotional or physical pain
- You keep telling others you’ve been a burden
- You’re using drugs or alcohol more often, or you started to use them
- You’re always feeling anxious or agitated
- You’ve changed your eating and/or sleeping habits
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
- You’re partaking in risky acts that could lead to death such as driving too fast
- Feeling trapped and that there are no solutions to your problems
- You’re always feeling anxious or agitated
- You started giving away important possessions
- You’ve said goodbye to friends and family
- You made a will and put personal affairs in order
If you’re having suicidal thoughts, it can be difficult to make the decision to get help because it’s likely that you don’t want to. However, seeking a resource even if you only have a few of the symptoms on the list can be both live-saving and life-changing. On the flipside, if you know someone who is showing signs or symptoms, don’t second guess yourself or wait until it’s too late to plan an intervention — your instincts are likely correct.
Many people find comfort in turning to their heavenly father for support and guidance during difficult times. Faith is the Evidence has resources to help you find that guidance. Visit our website today for resources and information.
To contact Sara email her at [email protected] Visit her website The Widow Net.
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