Sometimes we feel like our friend or family member is not the same person they used to be, that they have changed a lot? They seem bored with everything, and they are at a loss. It is very important for us to pay attention to this at times like these. Because some of these changes can be a sign that someone is in severe mental distress, to the point of thinking about taking their own life. Suicide is preventable. The first step is to know exactly what these warning signs are and what we should do in such a situation.
What are the warning signs? Let's be vigilant.
People who consider suicide don't actually want to die, but rather because they feel there is no other way to escape the unbearable pain they are going through. So, if someone talks about these things, don't just dismiss it as a threat. If you see any of the signs below in someone close to you, seek help immediately.
| Warning Sign | What does this mean? (What Does It Mean?) |
|---|---|
| Constantly talking about death | They may say things like, "I feel like dying," "There's no point in living," or they may talk about death all the time, write about it, and read about it. They may even search the Internet for ways to commit suicide. |
| Planning | They do things like give away their belongings to others, write a last will and testament, and say goodbye to everyone. Some may even write a suicide note. |
| Withdrawal | They withdraw from close friends and family. They lose interest in things they used to enjoy. They avoid social events and gatherings. They try to be completely alone. |
| Showing extreme frustration | Openly talking about unbearable pain. Expressing feelings like "I'm a burden to everyone." Talking about the future in a way that shows no hope. |
| Big changes in behavior and sleep | They often show a agitated, angry, and sad disposition. But suddenly, after making the decision to commit suicide, they may show a strange calmness. They may also sleep excessively or excessively. |
| Alcohol or drug use | Drug and alcohol use increases the risk of suicide. People may be tempted to abuse these substances to numb their pain or to harm themselves. |
| Risky behavior | They are tempted to do dangerous things without regard for their own lives, such as drinking and driving and engaging in risky sexual relations. |
Be especially careful about people like these (Risk Factors)
Some people are at higher risk of suicidal thoughts. If someone close to you has one or more of the conditions below, it is important to pay extra attention to them.
Imagine that your friend has been suffering from severe depression for a long time. In the meantime, he lost his job. When these two situations come together, he is very likely to become frustrated with life.
We are especially concerned about people with risk factors such as:
- Mental illness: Especially those with mental illnesses such as depression and bipolar disorder.
- Drug or alcohol addiction: These affect brain function and lead to the temptation to make rash decisions.
- Severe physical illness: The stress of living with chronic pain or an incurable disease.
- A major loss in life: the death of a loved one, the breakup of a relationship, or the loss of a job.
- Serious legal or financial problems: Being helpless due to an unbearable debt burden or legal issue.
- Traumatic events or abuse: Severe trauma or abuse that occurred during childhood or recently.
How can we help?
Never ignore any warning signs like this. Your small intervention and support can save someone's life.
1. Speak without fear
Don't be afraid to ask the person you care about about this. Asking them directly, "Are you having suicidal thoughts?", "Are you depressed?", "Can I help?" will not make those thoughts worse. In fact, talking about it can be a great relief. It will make them feel that they are not alone, that someone is looking out for them. It will also help us to understand the seriousness of the situation and take action quickly.
2. Encourage them to seek professional help.
You can help him, but professional help is essential to deal with a situation like this.
- Encourage them to see a mental health counselor or your doctor as soon as possible. If necessary, you can go with them to the doctor.
- Make them aware of the special telephone services they can call in such situations. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) of Sri Lanka has a 24-hour hotline number 1926. Also, voluntary organizations like 'Sumithrayo' are also helping in this regard. Share this information with them.
3. Take action in an emergency
If someone says something like "I'm going to die right now" and tries to harm themselves, it's an emergency.
- Don't leave him alone for any reason.
- Try to keep him as calm as possible.
- Calmly and carefully remove any dangerous items he may have, such as pills and sharp weapons.
- Seek help from those nearby immediately.
- If possible, safely take him to the nearest hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) .
Remember, your role is not to be a career counselor. Your role is to be a good listener, a good friend, and to direct him to the right professional support.
Take-Home Message
- Suicidal thoughts are a result of psychological distress. It is very important to be aware of these warning signs.
- If someone is talking about death, withdrawing from society, or experiencing a major change in behavior or sleep, don't ignore it.
- Don't be afraid to talk openly about the problem and listen to them. It can help them feel better and help you understand the situation.
- In an emergency, do not leave the person alone and take them to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU). Call your doctor or call 1926 for professional help.
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