According to a research by the NCRB, India reported 1.16 lakh suicide deaths in 2021, the highest number to date. The findings showed that students, young people, and small business owners contributed the most fatalities in this survey. A person may experience suicidal thoughts for a variety of reasons, such as having personal or professional difficulties, experiencing domestic violence, feeling lonely, or suffering from chronic pain.
Serious mental illnesses include depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder can also have suicide as a side effect. In many instances, suicide can be avoided by recognizing the warning signals when they are there.
There are five suicidal behavior red flags that you shouldn’t ignore:
1. Previous history of self-harm attempts: If there has been a pattern of earlier efforts, we need to be more cautious because it may have been a neglected “cry for assistance.”
2. Increasing alcohol consumption – Alcohol consumption impairs judgment and lowers inhibition, which can lead to impulsive behavior. Abuse of any substance, including alcohol, cigarettes, and cannabis, should be a warning sign that you need to get help.
3. Self-destructive conduct – Keep an eye out for any unexplained or unexpected cuts and bruises, especially on the regions of the body that are easily accessible.
4. Unusual behavioral changes – Sudden behavioral changes such as social isolation, decreased communication, and occasionally even persistent requests for admissions of perceived guilt or errors can raise a potential alarm.
5. Making threats or discussing suicide – Any note, action, or search history that suggests a potential desire to hurt or kill oneself is likewise an obvious red signal. These warning signs should be delicately and non-judgmentally discussed with the person in question. It is crucial to look for expert help if necessary.
These are some methods to assist them:
1. If at all possible, make sure the person is not by themselves and has company.
2. Encourage them to get professional assistance since it will improve their viewpoint and help them find a more effective solution to their issue.
3. Reassure them that things will get better and that they will eventually be able to handle their problems.
4. Keep in mind that a minor intervention on your part might help someone successfully overcome and combat suicidal ideas.