[Trigger Warning]
This article discusses mental health, suicidal thoughts, and suicide prevention. Some of the topics or wording may be difficult or triggering for readers with personal experience of these subjects. Please take care of yourself while reading and feel free to step away if you feel uncomfortable, or feel free to not read the article at all.
Today is September 10, which is internationally known as World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD). This day was established in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP), in conjunction with the World Health Organization (WHO). The aim of World Suicide Prevention Day is to reach national and international organizations, governments, and the general public with the message that suicide can be prevented. In addition to emphasizing that suicide can be prevented, this day aims to raise awareness and reduce stigma surrounding suicide and mental health.
The first World Suicide Prevention Day was held on September 10, 2003, in Stockholm. Each year, World Suicide Prevention Day focuses on a specific theme related to suicide prevention. Previous themes have included “Saving Lives, Restoring Hope” and “Connect. Communicate. Care.” The theme for 2024–2026 is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide.”
In this news post, several warning signs will be discussed, along with what you can potentially do as a friend, family member, or loved one to support someone who is struggling with their mental health. Finally, resources will be provided at the end of this news post.
Warning signs
There are several factors that could cause suicidal thoughts such as financial struggles, losing your job/housing, death of a loved one, physical health struggles and many more. Here are some general warning signs that may indicate that a person might be struggling. However, it’s good to remember that these are not definitive and a person might also commit suicide without any visible warning signs. The possible signs show up differently in everyone and may be difficult to spot in some cases.
- Making a detailed plan or otherwise researching ways to die;
- Giving away previously important items or suddenly making a will;
- Saying goodbye to others;
- Making arrangements for family members or pets;
- Isolating from friends and family or withdrawing from activities;
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live;
- Believing that things will never get better or feeling trapped;
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs;
- Taking needless risks like driving recklessly;
- Changes in eating or sleeping habits;
- Showing signs of extreme mood swings or, conversely, a sudden complete sense of calm;
What can I do for someone who is struggling with suicidal thoughts?
When you suspect that someone may be struggling with suicidal thoughts, there are several things you can do to support them. It is important, however, to be mindful of your own feelings and thoughts regarding this subject. Your own (mental) health should not suffer as a result of someone else’s struggles. Ultimately, this could make it difficult for you to support the other person.
The image below shows the steps you can take to support someone who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts.
Ask - Studies show that asking if someone is thinking about suicide doesn’t increase suicidal ideation or behavior, but can instead be an important conversation starter.
Listen - Be present and listen to their struggles without judging. Avoid comments that belittle their experiences, such as “other people have it worse”.
Connect - Help them contact a helpline or other crisis service and try to ensure that they don’t isolate themselves from friends and family.
Follow up - Checking in after the initial conversation can make a difference. Text, call or even meet up if they’re willing to. Let them know that you haven’t forgotten about them.
Act on immediate danger - In an acute crisis, call your country’s emergency number.
If You Need Support
If anything in this article resonated with you, please remember that you do not have to face difficult feelings on your own. Reaching out for help can be difficult, but talking to someone you trust or seeking professional support can be an important first step.
If you are struggling with your mental health, experiencing suicidal thoughts, or feel that you may be in immediate danger, please seek help. You can talk to someone you trust, contact a mental health professional, or use one of the crisis resources available in your country.
There have also been created a dedicated topic with information about available helplines and crisis resources, including numbers you can call when you are experiencing a mental health crisis:
https://gosupermodel.com/community/forum_thread.jsp?id=2018082
Please take care of yourself and remember: asking for help is not a sign of weakness. You deserve support, and you do not have to go through difficult moments alone.
Summary
- World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) takes place every year on September 10 and aims to raise awareness that suicide can be prevented.
- The day focuses on reducing stigma, encouraging conversations about mental health, and reminding people that help is available.
- The theme for 2024–2026 is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide.”
- You can support someone with asking, listening, connecting, following-up and to act on it when needed.
With love,
The Inclusivity Group
