Recognizing Signs of Suicide

If you were to check dictionary.com and look up the definition of "health" you will find the first definition as this one:

1. The general condition of the body or mind with reference to soundness and vigor.

Usually the first thing that comes to mind when we think of heath is a fit body. We are conditioned as a society to see images of athletes as the epitome of health, and when it comes to the physical aspect of it they are. What we tend to ignore at times is mental heath, the emotional health necessary to function in this highly stressed out world. As a society we also sometimes see depression or the inability to deal with unbearable amounts of stress as a weakness, this isn't so.

Our brains are a complex network of neurons and chemicals that regulate our whole bodies, but also our moods. Sometimes there may be chemical imbalances that lead to depression and/or bi-polar tendencies. Other times life just gets so hard that the average person just has a very hard time dealing with the load they feel is crushing them - this is no less serious than an actual chemical imbalance and clinical depression.

Either way, life can seem bleak and impossible to the individual who is going through either extreme stress or biological depression. It is important to recognize the signs that your loved one may need help. Here are a few:

• Depression.
• Change in habits.
• Irritability: The person may seem excessively irritable and unable to focus.
• Anger: Excessive anger or outbursts.
• Low Self Esteem.
• Withdrawing from loved ones, friends and family.
• Feeling like nothing will change and they are trapped and helpless.
• Lack of interest in usual activities or hobbies.
• Lack of sexual interest.
• Drug or Alcohol Abuse.
• Talking about death or dying. Expressing an interest to end their life.
• Giving away prized possessions.
• Recent loss: of loved one through death, divorce, breakup, a job or other important thing in their life.

These are signs that someone you know is going through a very dark time in their life. They may have a sign or two or all of the above, know they are not always a cluster of signs but the one or two that the individual exhibits is serious enough to recognize something is seriously wrong.

Often when we face this we don't think the person we love would be capable of taking their own life, however we need to understand that this dark mental place is very unique and we must understand that it is a serious situation. In no way should a person blame themselves if this happens, but you can also never be too careful when it comes to leading a loved one to help.

Also know that to the suicidal individual this is the only way out. Many feel anger at the selfishness of the person who ends their own life, but in their darkness they see their passing often as a good thing, in their mind it will be better for their loved ones if they are gone. Being aware that this is the way a depressed and suicidal individual sees their warped reality gives us the understanding that they are capable of ending it all.

Suicide hotlines not only offer support for the suicidal individual but also can provide a concerned friend or family member with the correct tools and point to the right direction to find help.

Here are a few numbers to call:

1-800-Suicide
1-800-273-8255
If you are feeling suicidal you can call 911 and tell them so. They will send help.

Websites:

www.hopeline.com
www.dbsalliance.org
www.contactwecare.org
www.thetrevorproject.org (helping the LBGTQ youth if you are Lesbian, Bi, Gay, Transgender or Questioning or know someone who is and is suicidal or in crisis, this is their focus)


Never hesitate to help, even if you think someone is 'crying wolf'. Even if this is the case they are crying for help, and never ever feel it is your fault if it is too late.