Knowing the signs of suicide and what to do

By Claire

Suicide is not something that happens suddenly. As best the research can tell, no one wakes up one morning and suddenly decides to take his or her own life. It’s often linked to people who suffer with depression – not just your average occasional sadness or blues, but persistent and pervasive depression or other mental health issues.

We have all seen the numbers coming out. Suicide among our troops returning from Iraq and Afghanistan is now the highest it’s been since Vietnam. Research, medication, and interventions are all a part of learning how to more effectively treat depression and help someone who is feeling suicidal to safely come through the struggle, alive and sound on the other side.

All of those things combined are only as effective as the loved ones that surround our soldiers. We are the first line of defense against suicide. We are the first line of detection of suicidal behavior. Isolation, feelings of hopelessness, and paralyzing depression leave the suicidal person unable to “pull himself/herself up by the straps of his/her boots.” Even the most strong, resolved and trained warrior needs support and love from his family.

Know the signs of suicide. Know what to do and how to act!

Excerpt from The Cleveland Clinic on suicidal behavior and what to do:

What are the warning signs for suicide?

Following are some of the possible warning signs that a person may be at risk for suicide:

• Excessive sadness or moodiness — Long-lasting sadness and mood swings can be symptoms of depression, a major risk factor for suicide.
• Sudden calmness — Suddenly becoming calm after a period of depression or moodiness can be a sign that the person has made a decision to end his or her life.
• Withdrawal — Choosing to be alone and avoiding friends or social activities also are possible symptoms of depression. This includes the loss of interest or pleasure in activities the person previously enjoyed.
• Changes in personality and/or appearance — A person who is considering suicide might exhibit a change in attitude or behavior, such as speaking or moving with unusual speed or slowness. In addition, the person might suddenly become less concerned about his or her personal appearance.
• Dangerous or self-harmful behavior — Potentially dangerous behavior, such as reckless driving, engaging in unsafe sex, and increased use of drugs and/or alcohol might indicate that the person no longer values his or her life.
• Recent trauma or life crisis — A major life crises might trigger a suicide attempt. Crises include the death of a loved one or pet, divorce or break-up of a relationship, diagnosis of a major illness, loss of a job, or serious financial problems.
• Making preparations — Often, a person considering suicide will begin to put his or her personal business in order. This might include visiting friends and family members, giving away personal possessions, making a will, and cleaning up his or her room or home. Some people will write a note before committing suicide.
• Threatening suicide — Not everyone who is considering suicide will say so, and not everyone who threatens suicide will follow through with it. However, every threat of suicide should be taken seriously.

Can suicide be prevented?

In many cases, suicide can be prevented. Research suggests that the best way to prevent suicide is to know the risk factors, be alert to the signs of depression and other mental disorders, recognize the warning signs for suicide, and intervene before the person can complete the process of self-destruction.

People who receive support from caring friends and family, and who have access to mental health services are less likely to act on their suicidal impulses than are those who are isolated from sources of care and support. If someone you know is exhibiting warning signs for suicide, don’t be afraid to ask if he or she is depressed or thinking about suicide. In some cases, the person just needs to know that someone cares and is looking for the chance to talk about his or her feelings. You can then encourage the person to seek professional help.

What should I do if someone I know is talking about committing suicide?

If someone you know is threatening suicide, take the threat seriously.

Do not leave the person alone. If possible, ask for help from friends or other family members.

Ask the person to give you any weapons he or she might have. Take away sharp objects or anything else that the person could use to hurt himself or herself.

Try to keep the person as calm as possible.

Call 911 or take the person to an emergency room.

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