Suicide is a critical health issue around the world. According to World Health Organization (WHO), suicide accounts for almost 800,000 deaths annually, which is an average of one death in every 40 seconds.

Sadly, the number of people attempting suicide is much greater than the number of people who actually end their lives. To prevent suicide, it is important to recognize the warning signs and take action immediately.

What is Suicide?

Suicide is a deliberate act of taking one’s own life. It is a complex problem that causes devastating impacts on the victim’s family, friends, and communities. It is a serious health problem that requires immediate attention and action.

Suicide does not discriminate – it can happen to anyone regardless of age, gender, social status, or background.

What Are The Warning Signs Of Suicide?

Suicide is preventable if identified early. Therefore, it is important to recognize the warning signs of suicide. Here are some common signs that may indicate suicide:.

1) Talking or Writing About Suicide

People who are thinking about suicide may talk or write about it. They may mention that they have thought about ending their lives, and they may talk about ways to do it. Take such statements seriously, and do not ignore them.

Encourage them to seek professional help immediately.

2) Increased Alcohol or Drug Use

People who are struggling with depression or anxiety may start taking drugs or alcohol excessively. Escaping reality is their way to cope with their mental health challenges. Unfortunately, this can eventually lead them down a dangerous path.

3) Giving Away Personal Items

If someone is giving away personal belongings to friends and family members, it may be an indication that they are thinking about suicide.

They may feel like they no longer need their belongings after they are gone, or they might want to ensure that their favorite things end up with someone they care about.

4) Withdrawing from Friends and Family

People who are feeling suicidal may withdraw from their loved ones. They may lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, or isolate themselves from those around them.

This type of behavior may be the warning sign of someone who is considering ending their life.

5) Changes in Eating Habits

Changes in eating habits can be a sign that someone is going through a difficult time. Either they may not be hungry and skip meals or overeat as a way to comfort themselves.

Keep an eye out for sudden changes in eating habits and patterns as it may be a warning sign of suicidal thoughts.

6) Mood Swings or Extreme Emotions

Depression and anxiety are signs of mental health issues. Mood swings, dramatic changes, and expressiveness in behavior may be drastic signs that someone is suicidal.

This change could get intense very quickly, which may require immediate action, to prevent the individual from causing self-harm.

7) Sleep Disturbances

People who are feeling suicidal may have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep through the night. Alternatively, they may sleep for extended hours during the day or become restless at night.

Keep an eye out for extreme variations in sleep patterns, as it could be a sign of suicidal tendencies.

8) Increased Risky Behavior

Risky behavior like reckless driving, drinking and driving, or other substance abuse can be warning signs that someone is going through a challenging time.

The risky behavior may be their way of trying to escape from their life or distract themselves from the issue at hand. Over time, these actions can escalate into suicidal thoughts.

9) Emotional Changes

You may notice that someone close to you trying to cover up their sadness as the way of expression. They might appear happy on the outside but are, in reality, struggling on the inside.

Look for emotional irregularities in behavior like agitation, frustration, or anger outbursts, as these could be signs of underlying suicide thoughts.

10) Previous Suicide Attempts

If someone has previously attempted suicide, it is essential to recognize that they are at a higher risk for another attempt.

If you or someone you know has attempted suicide, seeking professional help immediately is a must, to prevent further attempts from happening.

Conclusion

It is essential to remain aware of the warning signs for suicide, no matter who you are, to prevent future tragedies. Suicide is a serious issue that requires immediate action.

Take the proper steps to investigate and substantiate the warning signs notice in another person’s behavior. Take your time to talk with them and provide your support. Letting each other know with honest and open conversation will prevent the individual from making the rash decision of ending their life. Seek professional help when necessary!.