Unexpected signs that someone is suicidal

When you first imagine someone experiencing suicidal thoughts, you may imagine them crying, lying in bed, or suffering alone. Suicidal thoughts and associated depression often make people deeply sad or apathetic, and can lead to a number of these scenarios.

But there are other signs of suicidal thoughts that may be unexpected or confusing at first. It is when someone with a mental health condition suddenly takes action. very Feeling happy or at ease. While this may seem like a good sign, it can actually be a cause for concern.

The main points are: If someone with a mental health condition suddenly seems happy and relaxed, it may be because they have made a decision to: die by suicide. As a result, they are relieved of two things. The idea that I won’t be in any more pain and the fact that I can stop arguing with myself about the decision. At this point, and for this person, death is the only answer.

Ultimately, he said, we must view suicide as a health problem and one that involves great suffering. Doreen MarshallVice President of Mission Engagement, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

“Despite this pain, people who are considering suicide may also have ambivalent feelings about whether they want to live or die,” she explained. “When we think of wanting pain to go away, we may feel a sense of relief, similar to the relief we feel when physical pain is alleviated.”

There may also be another reason. “Even if you are struggling with your decision, you may be hiding your true feelings to keep loved ones and mental health professionals from knowing your intentions to die. There is also a gender,” says the doctor. Daniel Delaquilla, Associate therapist at Gateway to Solutions in New York City. “This is why it is so important not to stop evaluating for suicide, even if there is a sudden improvement in mental health symptoms.”

people with suicidal thoughts They work on different brain chemistry reactions that put them in the dark place of tunnel vision. Moreover, the intense level of psychological distress can be dizzying.

“For example, their brains function differently in terms of judgment, concentration, how they see the world, and how they solve problems,” Marshall says.

But there has to be a line, right? How can you tell if a person’s happy demeanor means they’re trying to hurt themselves, rather than just that their day is getting better? Or maybe it’s because of the “high” and energy that comes with mania? against with bipolar disorder?

First, consider context. “If a person suddenly increases in happy or carefree behavior without explanation, that’s an indicator that you should not only ask directly about suicidal thoughts, but also ask more closely and don’t be afraid to ask about the change.” Mr. Marshall said. (More on this later.)

Next, look for other signs of mania and suicidality and note how they differ. “Manic episodes also include other symptoms that aren’t necessarily common for people struggling with suicidal thoughts, such as exaggeration and arrogance,” Delaquilla says. “People who are manic often appear elated, whereas those who are contemplating suicide are more likely to appear calm and happy, but not necessarily overjoyed. there is no.”

Other signs of mania According to Dr. Howard Weeks, chief medical officer at Pathlight Mood and Anxiety Center, these include talking faster, having a decreased need for sleep, and participating in more goal-directed activities. “Mania is also a worrying mental illness and may require referral to a local mental health crisis centre,” he added. In other words, getting professional help can be a wise choice in any case.

Signs of suicidal tendencieson the other hand, talk about suicide (Example: “I’d be better off dead.”)implying that you will seek deadly measures, give up your prized possessions, or say goodbye and never see someone again. Signs may also vary from person to person. for example, black woman with depressionyou may notice more self-criticism and physical symptoms such as headaches, decreased sex drive, and gastrointestinal problems.

Weak said a sudden feeling of euphoria or relief is not a sign that you will. generally As such, look at people experiencing suicidal thoughts. “Nothing is ‘exact’,” says Dr. Weeks. “Many patients who decide to attempt suicide do not experience these mood swings.” “But that could be a red flag.”

At the same time, the “masking” element that Delaquilla mentioned is also very real. “The important thing to remember is that many patients do not exhibit typical symptoms of severe depression on the surface,” Weeks points out. “They are very good at hiding their underlying emotions, appearing happy and content in disjointed social situations.”

According to Marshall, the bottom line is: “You should pay attention to sudden changes in speech, mood, or behavior.”

You can and should ask if someone plans to commit suicide. It’s uncomfortable to verbalize this question, but it’s very important. And it doesn’t “give the person ideas,” which you (understandably) worry about. psychological medicine research.

“In many cases, they will be relieved that someone cares enough about their experience of suicidal ideation,” Marshall explained.

It is important to note that the person is not always say They plan to harm themselves, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need support.

“Even if they say no, encourage them to seek help from their treatment team (therapist, psychiatrist, nurse, primary care physician) or call 988 if they are concerned. “We can do that,” Weeks said. (eye stain, 988 is the new suicide hotline numbercall or text. )

In addition to asking direct questions, Marshall suggests staying calm, trusting your intuition, reminding others that you love them, and listening to them without criticizing or belittling them. I recommended that they be reassured by telling them. She also advised reminding people that they are not alone in what they are going through, normalizing conversations about mental health, and offering to help connect them with other resources.

“Take the time to listen to them calmly and ask follow-up questions, such as how often they have suicidal thoughts and what they need to do to feel safe. ” she added. “Also, reassure them that help is available and that these feelings are a signal that it’s time to talk to a mental health professional.” (open path collective has a database of more affordable therapists. ) and she recommended taking this person to the emergency room and staying with them to ensure their care and safety.

Although you are not this person’s health care provider, your role as a friend, family member, or other loved one is also important. “You’re not the person’s mental health expert, but you can help them get care,” Weeks said.