Recognizing Indications of Potential Suicidal Thoughts in Individuals

Recognizing Potential Symptoms of Suicidal Thinking

In a concerning statistic, suicide is the second leading cause of death in the United States, with one death occurring every 11 minutes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Certain groups of people may be at a higher risk for suicide, including veterans, people who live in rural areas, males, people who are unemployed, individuals in particular industries such as mining and construction, and young people in the LGBTQIA+ community, according to the Suicide Prevention Resource Center.

It's essential to pay attention to signs that someone may be struggling emotionally. Changes in sleep patterns, social isolation, and increased substance use can be indicators of emotional distress. Expressions of hopelessness, purposelessness, feeling like a burden, feeling stuck, and having experienced self-harm are signs to listen closely to someone's talk. Behavioral signs that may require more support and intervention include giving away possessions, withdrawing from social activities, showing a sudden improvement in mood, and making a will or saying goodbyes.

Famed clinical psychologist Kay Redfield Jamison wrote in her seminal book, "Night Falls Fast: Understanding Suicide," that each way to suicide is its own, intensely private, unknowable, and terrible. David Poses, author of "The Weight of Air," experienced suicidal ideation since early childhood and stated, "We're desperately hurting, unable to triage our hurt, and deeply ashamed because of it. If you felt that way, would you be in a hurry to tell someone or let it show?"

It's crucial to look out for three things - talk, behavior, and mood - when trying to recognize suicidal ideation. It's important to ask someone directly about their emotional state, even if they appear to be functioning and connected.

There are several resources available for those in need of support. Befrienders Worldwide offers an international crisis helpline network. The Trevor Project offers support for LGBTQIA+ individuals under 25 years old. The Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7 for veterans. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 for support, as well as the Crisis Text Line and the Deaf Crisis Line for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.

In a positive note, almost 50% of participants with suicidal ideation reported that they no longer experienced suicidal ideation 1 year later in the Army Study to Assess Risk and Resilience in Servicemembers (Army STARRS). This statistic underscores the importance of support and intervention in helping those struggling with suicidal ideation.

Populations with increased suicide risk include homeless people, people with substance use disorders, men, and people with severe mental illnesses. People facing conditions such as depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, and a family history of suicide may be more likely to attempt suicide, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP).

In conclusion, it's crucial to be aware of the signs of suicidal ideation and to provide support to those who may be struggling. If you or someone you know is struggling, don't hesitate to reach out to one of the many resources available.