Signs for Early Suicide Detection

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Following World Mental Health Day on October 10, we observed World Suicide Prevention Month last month. However, it is important to remember that every day is an opportunity to be proactive and care for one's wellbeing, not just during the designated months to bring attention to the issue of mental health and suicide. 

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The International Association for Suicide Prevention states that suicide can have an impact on a person's social, mental, and financial life. Therefore, it is crucial to recognize and comprehend the warning signs that may indicate the onset of suicidal tendencies. Most importantly, understanding these warning symptoms is crucial for prevention. 

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Below are some key signs that can indicate someone is at risk of suicide:

1. Talking about suicide or wanting to die: expressions such as "I want to die" or "I can't go on" are often direct signals of suicidal thoughts.

2. Withdrawing from friends, family, or society: avoiding friends and family can be a signal of emotional distress. This isolation is a warning sign that something may be wrong.

3. Mood swings or sudden calmness: extreme mood swings, such as going from deep sadness to sudden calmness or even happiness, can be a sign of someone making the decision to end their life.

4. Increased use of alcohol or drugs: substance abuse often escalates when someone is feeling overwhelmed or hopeless, and this can significantly raise the risk of suicide.

5. Feeling hopeless or trapped: individuals who feel hopeless or talk about feeling "trapped" often believe there's no solution to their problems. Hopelessness is a key warning sign.

6. Giving away possessions: If someone suddenly begins giving away personal belongings, especially things they value deeply, it may indicate that they are preparing for death.

7. Changes in sleep patterns: sleep disturbances, such as sleeping excessively or experiencing insomnia, are often associated with emotional distress and suicidal thoughts.

8. Researching methods or means for suicide: searching for information about ways to die by suicide or seeking means (such as acquiring firearms or stockpiling pills) is a serious emergency warning.

9. Expressing feelings of being a burden to others: a common belief among those considering suicide is that they are a burden to their loved ones, which often drives feelings of worthlessness.

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Mental health disorders associated with suicide tendencies:

Although it is not determinant, there are several mental health disorders that we find strongly related to an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Some of these mental health disorders are: 

Major Depressive Disorder

Anxiety Disorders

Bipolar Disorder

Borderline Personality Disorder

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Schizophrenia

Substance Use Disorders

Eating Disorders

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Antisocial Personality Disorder

Narcissistic Personality Disorder

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Recognizing the early warning signs of suicide can play a crucial role in preventing tragic outcomes. By paying attention to verbal cues, behavioral changes, and emotional distress, we can better identify individuals who may be at risk. While they may not be definitive indicators, mental health disorders frequently contribute to suicidal ideation and warrant careful consideration. It is essential to approach these signs with compassion and urgency, offering support and professional help when necessary.

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Early detection and intervention are key to saving lives and promoting mental well-being. If you or someone you know needs help, Empath is here for you.

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References:

• American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed., text rev.). https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425787
• Russell, K., Rasmussen, S., & Hunter, S. C. (2018). Insomnia and nightmares as markers of risk for suicidal ideation in young people: Investigating the Role of Defeat and Entrapment. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, 14(05), 775–784. https://doi.org/10.5664/jcsm.7104
• Signs matter: early detection. (2023, August 31). American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. https://afsp.org/signs-matter-early-detection/
• Suicide Prevention Resource Center. (2024, July 26). SAMHSA. https://www.samhsa.gov/grants/grant-announcements/sm-15-003
• Warning signs of suicide. (n.d.). National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/warning-signs-of-suicide

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