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Understanding Suicidal Thoughts: How to Provide ABC Support and Guidance to them

Writer's picture: Brigitte Adofo AgyapongBrigitte Adofo Agyapong

Updated: May 13, 2024


How-to-Stop-Someone-with-suicidal-thoughts

Suicide! Aaaaaah, why him? What happen and why did he have to do that? it seems everything was okay with him.


Why!

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated of 703,000 die globally from suicide death each year. And this could be YOU, YOU, and YOU. Everyone stands a chance of being a victim of suicide and suicidal thoughts. If people who die of suicide have this number thus, 703,000 then more of this number construct suicidal thoughts in their minds and attempts it several times before a successful incident of suicide happens. During this attempt, people around them often neglect the repeated actions or triggers they showcase, to inform them they are in pain and want to end it all. Sometimes, they are accused of exhibiting this behavior of signals indirectly informing people they are in pain.


What is suicide?

Suicide is the act of taking ones own life due to several reasons the victim has encountered, with the notion to end it all. According to the Center For Disease Control and Prevention, it is known as a serious public health problem and the second cause of death in the United States of America for the ages from 10-14 and 30-34. Also, with the World Health Organization(WHO) is the fourth leading death among the age of 15-39.


The most common instruments used are pesticides, hanging, and firearms.


What is suicidal thoughts

It is an attempt of a person to commit suicide without leading to death. These persons with suicidal thoughts often perform this action several times before landing on their motive, this act is mostly neglected by loved ones near these people.


Why people commit suicide

There are several reason why people engage in suicide. They include:-

  • Sadness or grief of a loved one.

  • Rage or desire to seek on revenge which is not successful.

  • shame to live due to child abuse or violence experiences.

  • They often see themselves as a burden to their family and society as a whole.

  • They consider life as not worthy of living, therefore they want to end it all.

  • Hardships in life such as financial hardships in life

  • Experience of mental disorders.


Warning Signs of a People with Suicidal Thoughts


People with suicidal thoughts will never do it in a blue, they will definitely show some signs that they want to end it all. Here are signs to look up to.

  • They are always talking about suicide " I will take my life" when I die that all" when you hear these things, it is a prone that they have motive for that.

  • Having frequent mood swings in their dealings with people.

  • Withdrawing from social contacts especially people they love, they are not doing the things they like doing anymore.

  • Feeling hopeless about every situation they encounter.

  • Giving away all their belongingness like they will never need any more.

  • Saying goodbye to people like they won't see them any longer.

  • Engaging in destructive activities.


What will you do to support someone who shows signals of suicidal thoughts and attempts?

This awareness is not a one-day affair but a must-affair that must be done daily. What can you do to help someone showing suicidal signals?



Here are 3 major ABC Pillars of Suicidal support


A for Awareness:

The first step in supporting someone with suicidal thoughts is to educate ourselves about the signs, risk factors, and warning signs. Suicidal ideation can manifest differently in each person, but common signs include talking about feeling hopeless, expressing a desire to die, withdrawing from social activities, and giving away possessions. Additionally, factors such as mental illness, trauma, substance abuse, and life stressors can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts.

By staying informed, we can recognize when someone might be in distress and intervene before it's too late. It's essential to take any mention of suicide seriously and not dismiss it as attention-seeking behavior. Each cry for help, no matter how subtle, deserves our attention and support.



B for Being present:

Being present for someone struggling with suicidal thoughts means offering them our undivided attention, empathy, and non-judgmental support. It's about creating a safe space for them to express their feelings openly without fear of rejection or stigma. This can be as simple as listening without interrupting, validating their emotions, and letting them know they are not alone.

Active listening is a powerful tool in supporting someone with suicidal thoughts. Instead of trying to offer solutions or minimize their pain, focus on understanding their perspective and emotions. Reflect back what they're saying, ask open-ended questions, and reassure them that you're there for them no matter what.



C for Compassion:

Compassion is at the heart of supporting someone through their darkest moments. It involves showing kindness, empathy, and understanding towards their pain, even when we may not fully comprehend it ourselves. It's about standing by them through the ups and downs, offering unconditional love and support every step of the way.

When supporting someone with suicidal thoughts, it's crucial to avoid judgment, criticism, or guilt-tripping. Instead, validate their feelings, remind them of their worth, and encourage them to seek professional help.



In conclusion, supporting someone with suicidal thoughts requires awareness, presence, and compassion. By familiarizing ourselves with the signs, being present for those in need, and showing compassion toward their pain, we can offer invaluable support and potentially save lives. Let's break the stigma surrounding mental health and create a world where everyone feels supported and valued, no matter what struggles they may be facing.


Can you tell what you can do to help someone stop suicidal thoughts?


I would love to read your comment regarding that.






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