There is no single factor that determines whether someone will attempt suicide. Anyone may resort to suicide as a way to cope with actual or perceived stress.
Suicide happens across all groups in society. However, men are three times more likely to die by suicide than women, despite the fact that women are three to four times more likely to attempt suicide.
There are many different reasons and situations which can lead someone to consider suicide.
Known risk factors for suicide include:
A previous suicide attempt: Individuals who have previously attempted suicide are at a higher risk for future suicide attempts
A serious physical illness: Chronic pain or illness: People with chronic pain or illness may experience feelings of hopelessness or despair that can increase their risk of suicide.
Mental health disorders: People with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders are at an increased risk of suicide.
Access to lethal means: Suicide risk can be increased by having easy access to weapons, drugs, or other fatal methods.
Problems with drugs or alcohol: Often decision-making is impaired by being under the influence.
Major life changes or transitions, A major loss, such as the death of a loved one, unemployment, or the loss of a relationship.
Social isolation or lack of a support network: People who are socially isolated or lack social support are at a higher risk of suicide.
Family violence or abuse: Individuals who have experienced trauma or abuse, including childhood abuse or neglect, are at an increased risk of suicide.
What are the warning signs?
Signs can be difficult to recognise.
Even though there may be warning signals, not everyone who exhibits them is suicidal. While others may exhibit few symptoms but still feel suicidal.
Sometimes we don’t recognise the signs even though they may seem obvious when we look back. This frequently occurs because we were too close or caught up in the situation.
The only way to be certain whether someone is considering suicide is to either ask them directly or if they confide in you themselves.
Checking out anything you are worried about and getting the right kind of help will hopefully prevent the situation from getting worse.
People who are going through severe emotional suffering and may be contemplating suicide frequently exhibit the following symptoms:
Withdrawing from friends and family.
Depression or very low mood (not necessarily a diagnosed mental illness) which may appear as:
Loss of interest in usual activities;
Extreme sadness, hopelessness or irritability;
Changes in appetite;
Changes in sleep patterns;
Loss of energy;
Negative comments about self;
Feelings of hopelessness, powerlessness and worthlessness;
Sudden shift from distress to claiming they are "at peace" or "okay" (this could signify that they have made the decision to take their life);
Talking about going away or saying goodbye;
Threatening, talking or writing about suicide.
Putting personal affairs in order.
Giving away the things they own
Despite the fact that not all suicides may be avoided, certain tactics can help lower the risk.
These strategies include:
· Seeking help for mental health issues and establishing a positive working relationship with a doctor or other healthcare providers.
Creating social support networks, such as those with family, friends, a peer support or support group, or connections to a community
· Learning good coping skills and resilience to deal with problems as they arise
It may take some time after receiving treatment for an attempted suicide for the suicidal thoughts to become controllable and stop.
It's important to follow the treatment plan.
When someone you know begins acting differently, tries to open up a little, or lets you know anything is wrong, take it seriously and take action.
Look out for the signs that someone you know may be struggling and stay connected to them, monitor for thoughts of suicide, and seek extra help if it is needed.
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