Suicide is all the more tragic because it can be easily prevented.
Symptoms
Suicide warning signs or suicidal thoughts include:
● Talking about suicide, for example, making statements such as “I’m going to kill
myself,” “I wish I were dead,” or “I wish I hadn’t been born.”
● Getting the means to take your own life, such as buying a gun or stockpiling pills.
● Withdrawing from social contact and wanting to be left alone.
● Having mood swings, such as being emotionally high one day and deeply discouraged
the next.
● Being preoccupied with death, dying, or violence.
● Feeling trapped or hopeless about a situation.
● Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.
● Changing normal routines, including eating or sleeping patterns.
● Doing risky or self-destructive things, such as using drugs or driving recklessly.
● Giving away belongings or getting affairs in order when there is no other logical
explanation for doing so.
● Saying goodbye to people as if they will not be seen again.
● Developing personality changes or becoming severely anxious or agitated,
particularly when experiencing some of the warning signs listed above.
Warning signs are not always obvious, and they may vary from person to person. Some
people make their intentions clear, while others keep suicidal thoughts and feelings secret.
Causes
The cause of suicide is complex and involves the interaction of genetics, brain circuits, and
brain chemistry with environmental triggers. Genetics influence a person’s vulnerability to
suicide. People who die by suicide or who have suicidal thoughts or behaviours are more
likely to have a family history of suicide.
Certain brain circuits involved in emotional regulation, decision-making, impulse control,
and responding to stress may function differently in a person with a genetic vulnerability to
suicide. Faulty wiring in these circuits affects how a person processes emotions and copes
with difficult situations. Changes in brain chemistry can also influence mood, thinking, and
behaviour, particularly during periods of significant hormonal and metabolic changes in the
body.
These biological factors do not act in isolation. They constantly interact with psychological
and environmental trauma and experiences, which can trigger suicidal behaviour.
The following increase the risk of suicide in you or your loved one:
● Previous suicide attempt.
● Feeling hopeless, worthless, agitated, socially isolated, or lonely.
● Experiencing a stressful life event, such as the loss of a loved one, military service, a
breakup, or financial or legal problems.
● Having a substance abuse problem. Alcohol and drug abuse can worsen thoughts of
suicide and make you feel reckless or impulsive enough to act on those thoughts.
● Having suicidal thoughts and access to firearms in your home.
● Having an underlying psychiatric disorder, such as major depression, post-traumatic
stress disorder, or bipolar disorder.
● Having a family history of mental disorders, substance abuse, suicide, or violence,
including physical or sexual abuse.
● Having a medical condition that can be linked to depression and suicidal thinking,
such as chronic disease, chronic pain, or terminal illness.
● Having an unsupportive family or living in a hostile environment.
Children and Teenagers
Suicide in children and teenagers can follow stressful life events. What an older adult sees as
a minor problem may seem insurmountable to a child or young adult. These may include
problems in school or the loss of a friendship.
In some cases, a child or teenager may feel suicidal due to certain life circumstances that they
may not want to talk about, such as:
● Having a psychiatric disorder, including depression.
● Loss of or conflict with close friends or family members.
● A history of physical or sexual abuse.
● Problems with alcohol or drugs.
● Physical or medical issues, for example, becoming pregnant or having a sexually
transmitted infection.
● Being the victim of bullying.
● Being uncertain of sexual orientation.
● Reading or hearing about suicide or knowing a peer who died by suicide.
If you are concerned about a friend or family member, asking about suicidal thoughts and
intentions is one of the best ways to identify risk.
Treatment
Treatment for suicidal thoughts depends on the person’s needs, the underlying causes, and the
level of risk. Early intervention can help reduce distress, improve coping, and prevent a crisis.
Treatment may include:
● Psychological therapy, such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical
Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), or other
evidence-based approaches that help individuals understand and manage suicidal
thoughts, emotional distress, and underlying mental health concerns.
● Psychiatric consultation to assess symptoms, identify any underlying mental health
conditions, and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
● Medication, when appropriate, to treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar
disorder, or other psychiatric disorders that may contribute to suicidal thoughts.
● Crisis intervention and safety planning to help individuals manage periods of intense
distress, reduce immediate risk, and identify coping strategies and sources of support.
● Family involvement and social support, where appropriate, to strengthen protective
factors and create a supportive environment for recovery.
● Regular follow-up and ongoing care to monitor progress, adjust treatment when
needed, and reduce the risk of future suicidal crises.
Recovery is possible with timely intervention, appropriate treatment, and continued support.
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, seeking professional help as
early as possible can make a significant difference.
Prevention
To help keep yourself from feeling suicidal, it is important to get the treatment you need. If
the underlying cause is not addressed, suicidal thoughts are likely to return. Although seeking
help for mental health problems may feel difficult or embarrassing, receiving appropriate
treatment for depression, substance misuse, or other underlying conditions can improve your
quality of life and help keep you safe.
It is equally important to establish a strong support network. Talking about suicidal feelings
may not be easy, and friends or family may not always fully understand what you are
experiencing. Nevertheless, reaching out and letting trusted people know what is happening
can make a significant difference. Support may also come from your place of worship,
community organisations, or support groups. Feeling connected and supported can help
reduce suicide risk.
Remember that suicidal feelings are temporary. If you feel hopeless or believe that life is not
worth living, remember that treatment can help you regain perspective. Life can get better.
Take one step at a time and avoid acting impulsively.
