Suicide signs and prevention

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Suicide—No one wants to talk about it. The words secret, stigma and taboo come to mind when we hear it voiced. But it doesn't discriminate; individuals from every race, age, culture, class and gender are affected by suicide. At one time or another, every person finds life overwhelming. Some can't cope or can't find a solution to their emotions or troubles and fall into despair seeing suicide as the only way out.

Before a person reaches this stage, however, there are often red flags. It's vital that these signs aren't ignored, overlooked or minimized by family, friends and loved ones. The information provided here can help you understand the causes and warning signs and offer some suggestions on suicide prevention.

A common struggle

Suicide is more widespread than you might think—it's the fourth leading cause of death worldwide. Here in Canada more than 3,500 people lose their lives to suicide each year. It's easy to feel sorrow and regret not only for the victims, but also for their loved ones who are deeply affected by the loss.

While many find the topic uncomfortable to talk about, the reality is that suicide can affect anyone. If you suspect someone you know is considering suicide, act quickly to get them professional support. Or if you find yourself contemplating it, contact a counsellor, medical professional or suicide/distress hotline immediately. There are many reasons that can cause someone to see suicide as the only solution to their problems and it may, at one time or another, happen to you, your family, friends, neighbours or co-workers.

Why suicide?

Hopeless, helpless, worthless and desperate: these are strong words to describe the intense feelings many people who've contemplated suicide experience. Whatever the trigger, suicide may seem like the only solution to an unsolvable, painful problem. A suicidal person believes no one can help them and that the problem can't be fixed. People are at a greater risk of committing suicide if they:

• Have a personal or family history of mental illness including depression, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia
• Are experiencing a serious physical illness
• Have made previous suicide threats or attempts
• Have a family history of suicide or suicide attempts
• Abuse alcohol or drugs
• Have been dealt an emotional blow such as the death of a loved one, unemployment or divorce
• Are undergoing major changes in their life

Warning signs

Being aware of what signs to look for is a huge step in preventing suicide. You or your loved one may exhibit multiple signs or just one. Any indication should prompt you to get help immediately. It's also important to remember that for different age groups—i.e., teens, adults and seniors—there may be different factors that cause stress and depression that would make someone more likely to consider suicide as an answer.

Teens can have a difficult time at school with friends, teachers, parental expectations or work load. Adults may be faced with divorce or job loss. Seniors may experience the death of a spouse or diagnosis of a life-limiting illness. Common danger signs include:

• Repeated expressions of hopelessness, helplessness, worthlessness or desperation;

• Behaviour that is out of character—e.g., someone who is normally careful acts recklessly;

• Symptoms of depression—sleeplessness, social withdrawal, loss of appetite, loss of interest in activity;

• A sudden and unexpected change in someone suffering from anxiety or depression to an unusually cheerful attitude;

• Giving away prized possessions to friends and family; making a will, taking out insurance or other preparations for death;

• Making remarks related to death and dying or telling someone they intend to commit suicide, even in a joking manor; and/or

• Tension, anxiety, nervousness, impulsiveness.

A cry for help

Many people who consider or plan for suicide may not really want to die. They may simply see it as the only solution to end their pain and suffering.

When your loved one exhibits warning signs, it's a cry for help. Take action by seeking support immediately. If you find suicidal thoughts entering your inner dialogue, discuss these thoughts with a person you trust—be it a loved one or a medical professional. By getting help as soon as the warning signs appear, suicide, in many cases, can be prevented.

How to help

Watching someone in emotional pain is never easy, especially when it's a loved one you care deeply about. While it may be instinctive to try and minimize or downplay the signs of a loved one contemplating suicide, (most likely because you don't want to think the unthinkable) your involvement can play a critical role in suicide prevention.