Credits: healthmatters.nyp.org
Myths about suicides
Many tend to brush off suicidal comments because of the persistent myth that suicidal comments are often just empty talk. However, these comments are often warnings prior to suicidal attempts and we should always take such remarks seriously.
Some also think that only mentally unsound (or crazy) people will attempt suicides. The truth is that most suicidal people are not psychotic or insane. Mental health conditions are not the only trigger of suicidal thoughts. Some risk factors include previous attempts or family history of suicides, serious health conditions, distressing life events and prolonged stress factors. The least we could do would be to look out and care for those in distress.
Many may mistakenly assume that only those acting moody and sad are suicidal. In fact, some suicidal people may become unusually happy or outgoing after they have decided to commit suicide. Drastic emotional and behavioural changes are common indicators of suicidal tendencies.
Some may think that avoiding suicidal topics may be better as it prevents suicidal thoughts from surfacing. Instead, we should encourage people to share about their what is triggering their suicidal thoughts so that we can take appropriate actions following that.
Warning signs of suicide
As mentioned above, we should not trivialise any suicidal comments as those may be signals for us to step in. So, what exactly are some warning signs we should look out for?
The most common warning sign would be talking about suicide, specifically comments like, “I think I’m better off dead”. Suicidal people may also seek out for lethal objects to be used in a suicide attempt. Some may choose to express themselves through their poems or stories, with an unusual focus on death or violence.
A strong predictor of suicide is hopelessness, when people believe that things will never get better. Worthlessness, guilt, shame and self-hatred may also be felt leading up to suicides. Some may also make preparations prior to suicidal attempts, such as making wills and bidding farewell to their loved ones. Some may choose to be left alone or start engaging in self-destructive behaviour. Dramatic mood swings or sudden personality changes could also point towards suicidal tendencies.
Credits: wallhere.com
Taking action
Credits: SOS
- Speak up
If you spot any of the warning signs mentioned above in someone you care about, ask and let them know you care. You could start the conversation with something like ‘I wanted to check in with you because you haven’t seemed yourself lately.’ To get the person to open up, you could ask what happened to them that they started feeling that way and how you could support them. Even just encouraging them by saying, “You are not alone in this. I’m here for you.” could make that whole lot of difference.
- Listen to understand
Instead of rushing into giving advice, recognise the person’s struggle and invite them to keep talking. Opening up about their problems or venting their frustrations is one crucial step towards liberating them from their suicidal mind frame. It is important that we remain non-judgemental and take their thoughts seriously.
Credits: SOS
- Offer help and support
Assure the person that you will be here for them every step of the way and that it is absolutely alright to seek additional help they may require. Encourage them to seek professional help such as consulting a mental health professional. Offer to accompany them to make an appointment. In this way, they would feel less alone and uncertain. You could also call a crisis line (1800-221-4444 for SOS) for advice and make referrals (pat@sos.org.sg).
Take a proactive stance as a buddy after they have sought treatment. If medication is prescribed, make sure that the person stays on track with medication. Closely monitor their condition and notify the doctor if there is a cause for concern. Initiate calls or outings to let them know that you are always there. Encourage positive lifestyle changes like healthy eating or regular exercising to promote emotional well-being. Make a safety plan, which consists of steps he or she promises to follow during a suicidal crisis. Remove any potential means of suicide. Most importantly, show continual support in their journey towards recovery.
Credits: SOS
Conclusion
With the ongoing pandemic that is causing many distresses, it is of utmost importance that we continue to look out for one another, especially in terms of emotional well-being. I hope that this article has helped you gain a better understanding on the topic of suicides, and more importantly, how you can play a part in preventing such unfortunate events. With increasing awareness and joint effort, I am confident that we will gradually grow into a warm community that strives towards positive emotional well-being as one.
Written by Ting Yu. Ting Yu is an undergraduate in SMU pursuing Psychology. She is a writer who aims to raise greater awareness on mental health in Singapore, and to learn alongside with the readers.
References
Helping Someone Who is Suicidal: Samaritans of Singapore (SOS). (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.sos.org.sg/get-help/helping-someone-in-crisis
Melinda. (n.d.). Suicide Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.helpguide.org/articles/suicide-prevention/suicide-prevention.htm
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