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Suicide warning signs​

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It is important to take the warning signs of suicide seriously and to seek help if you think that you know a person who might be suicidal. Here are some of the things to look for: 

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  • Disinterest in favorite extracurricular activities 

  • Problems at work and losing interest in a job 

  • Substance abuse, including alcohol and drug (illegal and legal drugs) use

  • Behavioral problems 

  • Withdrawing from family and friends 

  • Sleep changes 

  • Changes in eating habits 

  • Begins to neglect hygiene and other matters of personal appearance 

  • Emotional distress brings on physical complaints (aches, fatigues, migraines) 

  • Hard time concentrating and paying attention 

  • Declining proficiency in work

  • Risk taking behaviors 

  • Complains more frequently of boredom 

  • Does not respond as before to praise

 

Not all of these warning signs will be present in cases of possible suicide. There are many cases in which a person who seems fine commits suicide. It is important to watch for two or three signs as indications of depression, or even suicidal thoughts.

Prevention

One of the most important aspects of suicide prevention is support. The person needs to know that you support and love him or her, and that you are willing to help him or her find hope in life again. One of the most effective ways to prevent suicide is to recognize the signs of suicidal thoughts and feelings, and seek professional help. Some of the most effective suicide prevention programs consist of identifying and treating the following problems:


• Mental and learning disorders
• Substance abuse problems
• Problems dealing with stress

• Behavior problems (such as controlling aggressive and impulsive behavior)​





Factors taken into account when developing treatment for suicidal teens:



When a person becomes suicidal, there are certain factors that a physician and/or mental health professional will take into account when helping to develop a suicide treatment plan. Here are some of things to be taken into consideration when developing treatment for suicidal persons:


• The extent of a person’s suicidal symptoms
• The overall medical history and health of the person
• Tolerance the person has with regard to procedures, medications and therapies
• The seriousness of any suicide attempt or warnings by the person
• Impressions of the risk for suicide at a later time
• The opinion of a relative, as well as the person, regarding treatment preferences​


Treatment for suicidal persons is created on an individual basis. Each subject requires his or her own evaluation and a tailored treatment plan designed to specifically work with his or her needs.


All of the above issues can be difficult for a person to cope with, leading to helplessness and discouragement, which in turn can turn to self-destructive thoughts in order to make an escape from the seemingly insurmountable pressures of life. Getting help for underlying problems, which almost always include depression can lead to more effective suicide prevention. Your support as a person you know enters therapy can help him or her more effectively recover and know that there are people who want to help him or her deal with the issues of life.

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