Suicide is a sensitive topic, therefore, talking to someone about how they feel should be done so with caution.
September is suicide prevention month.
In the UK alone, according to the office for national statistics (ONS) there were 6507 registered suicides in 2018.
That is a tremendous amount of people.
Suicide is a very sensitive topic that should not be taken lightly,
I cannot fathom the thought process of those considering to take their own life.
For some people, they believe that suicide is the only option for them to escape their reality.
I want to encourage people to be open and honest about the issues that are bothering them if they choose to do so. It has taken me years to open up and I am still on my journey to healing.
You don’t always have to share your most intimate details but finding a way to relieve your stress e.g., writing, deep breathing and meditation are some good starting ideas.
Access to therapy is not an option for everyone which is unfortunate.
Medication is not always suitable for all due to the numerous side effects they entail.
Talking to people, taking part in physical exercise are some helpful ways to reduce depression and anxiety.
I understand that the world can be a scary place at times but you are not alone.
At any point, if you feel that you need someone to talk to, I am here to offer a listening ear and an open heart.
How to support someone who is contemplating suicide?
In order to talk to someone about suicide, you need to empathise with them; aim to get an understanding of where they are coming from.
Do NOT judge them in any way. Talking about it is hard enough.
If they are feel open to it, encourage them to speak to a professional.
Ask them why they believe they need to take their own life.
Risk and protective factors
Risk factors are elements that increase the risk of diagnosis and/or symptoms of mental health disorders.
Potential risk factors of suicide may include traumatic life events, life changes and a diagnosis of mental health disorder. Refer to Rethink Mental Illness for more.
On the other hand, protective factors are in place to reduce the risk of diagnosis. These include but are not limited to: having a support system, good overall wellbeing and having the ability to resolve conflict adequately.
If you know anyone who is struggling, please try to seek help and provide support for them.
No one should go through their struggles alone.
Thanks for reading and please refer to NHS for further information.
Thank you for sharing this! So very important.
Thank you for reading!
I appreciate it. Thank you for reading!
Thanks for this post! The world needs this kind of posts <3
Thank you so much!
Love this content! Thank you so much for sharing!!!
Thank you very much. Thank you for reading!
Yes, suicide awareness is an important topic, and one we don’t pay enough attention to. That’s why some people slip through the cracks of our society and kill themselves. Then, everyone’s shocked, ‘how could this happen,’ they ask? Just a little bit of attention and empathy for someone who is hurting can go a long way.
Exactly. Paying attention and being kind really goes a long way. Thank you for reading!