How to know if your loved one is feeling suicidal

The first step in preventing suicide is to identify the warning signs of suicide in somebody who is known to us. If your loved one is withdrawing self, losing interest in everyday activities, and feeling that life is meaningless, you should immediately call helpline or get in touch with a therapist or doctor. Dr Jalpa Bhuta, Psychiatrist, Global Hospital, Parel Mumbai on how to identify the warning signs of suicide.

Published on: Oct 29, 2022 9:13 PM IST

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Published on Oct 29, 2022 9:13 PM

"Every year, more than a lakh people commit suicide in our country. There are various causes of suicides - mental health issues, career problems, financial problems, relationship issues, addiction, chronic pain, abuse, violence etc. The rates of suicide have been increased by 8.7% in 2020, over 2019. There are 449 suicides per day," says Dr Bhuta. (Pixabay)

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Becoming withdrawn and isolating self: If your loved one is distancing him or her of late from social situations and finding excuses to cancel plans, this could be a sign of depression. (Pixabay)

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Losing interest in pleasurable activities: Suicidal thoughts are common in depression. If your friend or family member is withdrawing from everyday activities that brought him or her joy, they could be depressed. (Pixabay)

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Talking about life not being worth living: One of the reasons people think of suicide is when they think there is nothing left in their life. If somebody close to you feels this way, you should immediately get help. (Pixabay)

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If your friend or someone known to you is making last acts such as giving out favourite things to others, writing letters, talking of the end, this is another crucial sign that you should not ignore. (Pixabay)

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If someone is desperately seeking help from friends, professionals or family as a last ditch attempt, you should hear them out. (Pixabay)

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A person who is having suicidal thoughts would talk always be hopeless and negative about things. (Unsplash)

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Crying, preoccupation, insomnia are some other signs of suicidal thoughts. (Unsplash)

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A person who has suicidal tendencies would tend to feel that they are a burden to others. (Pixabay)

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"When we notice the above warning signs, we have to seek help from the right professionals, apart from being there to provide emotional support. There are several crises helplines, emergency departments, mental health hospitals providing admission and the required care to the persons. Suicide attempts can be averted and we all have to jointly pledge to look after each other's well-being and eradicate the shame and stigma," says Dr Bhuta. (Unsplash)