It is not possible to absolutely predict suicide with certainty because of that were the case it would not be the large issue it is today. However there are signs, there are certain groups of people that are more at risk, and when these things are understood suicide prevention is more likely.

 

What are the risks?

Suicide is a leading cause of death in the US and is not just something to look for in adults. Teens and youths are also seeing an increase in suicidal thoughts, self-destructive behaviour, attempting suicide and suicide. While it is seen in people who are mentally ill, it is not only in those who are diagnosed with such issues. There is no one thing that says yes that person will try to kill themselves and will be successful. But there are certain people more at risk than others. People with mental illness, people from a poor socioeconomic background, people from the LGBT community and so on. Suicide prevention includes recomgising certain behvaouir and taking action when it is seen. This includes;

 

  • Acting out in rage, it might mean hitting things, or lashing out with hurtful words
  • Talking about wanting revenge not always for a valid reason
  • Feeling trapped with no where to escape to so suicide is the only answer
  • Being in mental pain
  • A dramatic change in recent behaviour
  • Recent loss, it could be a death, a divorce, a job and so on
  • Not being able to sleep enough or oversleeping
  • Being withdrawn and isolating themselves from family and peers
  • Talking about dying or not being afraid of death, seemingly welcoming it
  • Having mood swings that are very extreme and not normal for them
  • Feeling like they are a burden to everyone and that noone cares
  • Risky behaviour including drinking and drug taking
  • Being reckless such as driving under the influence or doing dangerous things
  • Acting agitated and anxious

 

Remember that these are not things that are required, some of them might be observed but not all of them. Should you notice such behaviour it makes sense to take the advice you might find with some suicide prevention resources.

 

What can you do to help?

There are protective factors to help with suicide prevention you can ensure are in place to help people at risk so that they are less likely to commit suicide. These include;

 

  • Having positive connections with their community, their peers, their family
  • Developing problem-solving skills they can then apply to their lives
  • Having well-funded and up-to-date effective mental health care

 

Conclusion

When we work together using suicide prevention resources we can shine a light and open up discussions and educate people. Then more people who choose suicide as their only answer can find the help that will save their lives. If you observe the following three behaviours you should seek help for the person involved. Talking about killing themselves, talking about how they might kill themselves or gathering methods of killing themselves and feeling hopeless with no reason to continue.

Author's Bio: 

This Article Penned by Lora Davis.