Medically reviewed by Dr. Muhammad Ashraf Shera.
Today is World Suicide Prevention Day and therefore, we are devoting this blog to raise awareness about it. Thousands of people lose their life because of suicide every year. This is an extremely difficult topic to talk about and it isn’t easy figuring out whether your loved one is struggling. Therefore, we are mentioning 5 ways to prevent suicide. (by figuring out the warning signs and being there for your loved ones)
Note the warning signs
Many people don’t really know when a person is suicidal. However, there are a lot of warning signs we can look out for if we think someone is struggling. The most common signs are isolation and thinking that you are a burden on others. Some other signs include anxiety that can cause agitation at the slightest things. Also, detaching oneself from friends and family members can also be a warning sign.
A few other signs:
- Self-deprecating thoughts
- This feeling of being trapped
- Feeling as though ‘nothing really matters’
- Disturbed sleeping patterns
Get rid of the deep-rooted stigma
If you want to help people, you need to get rid of the stigma presented in society. You need to talk about suicide and educate others by letting them know that a suicidal person shouldn’t be shamed or silenced. These people need to realize that they can easily reach out and speak up about their struggles with others. Moreover, they need to know that they are not alone and that there are many others out there who will support them in the hardest of times.
It is important to remove the stigma to provide help and resources to friends and family members. If you have a suicidal person around you, then talk to them openly instead of hushing them down.
Make a note of the resources
To help prevent suicide you need to inform people around you of the helplines and sites that are available. Some of them include:
- https://talk2me.pk
- Rozan.org (Helpline- 0800-22444 and email- helpline@rozan.org)
- Umang Pakistan (Helpline- 00923174288665)
Be a good listener and listen some more
If you see some of the warning signs present in your friend or family member then you need to be there for them. Being a good listener doesn’t require any added skills, you just have to lend your ear and listen to them. Just be patient and understanding. Do not get into an argument or offer insensitive solutions. Remember, suicidal thoughts don’t go away instantly so don’t put insensitive solutions forward that would trivialize the experience of the person.
Show compassion
Everyone needs compassion, including people who have attempted suicide and their loved ones. We are in no place to judge them or pass off insensitive comments that might trigger them. If one has tried to attempt suicide then understand their struggle. Do not put them down by making them feel guilty or bringing in religious arguments. Suicide is a sad event that leaves behind a lot of suffering. People need our compassion, not our judgmental and anger-filled remarks.
It isn’t easy
Yes, it definitely might not be easy. But if you love someone then you need to be there for them. However, if you don’t have the mental energy to be there for them then try to get them some professional help. Take them to a therapist and understand their struggles. All you need to do is offer some hugs and loads of empathy. It isn’t easy but doing so might make it easier for them.
Guest Credits: Asma Qadri
