What Is Suicidal Ideation? Know Warning Signs, Prevention Tips To Help Others

Taking one’s own life is a tragic event, often resulting from overwhelming stress or life challenges. If you know someone who you think may be considering suicide, or if you are having such thoughts, it is crucial to recognise the warning signs of suicidal ideation because suicide is preventable.

“Suicide is a serious public health problem that can have long-lasting effects on individuals, families, and communities. The good news is that suicide is preventable", explains the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

"Preventing suicide requires strategies at all levels of society. This includes prevention and protective strategies for individuals, families, and communities. Everyone can help prevent suicide by learning the warning signs, promoting prevention and resilience, and committing to social change.”

Although it may feel like your world is crashing down, it’s important to remember that you are not alone. 

If you’re experiencing a stressful situation that makes suicide seem like the only solution, seek help from loved ones, open up, and approach someone you trust and feel safe with. Always remind yourself that no situation lasts forever, not even the hard times. Tell yourself, "This too shall pass."

Study their behaviour 

According to the Mayo Clinic, below are the signs of suicidal thoughts:

• 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 use of alcohol or drugs
• Changing normal routine, 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's no other logical explanation for doing this
• Saying goodbye to people as if they won't be seen again
• Developing personality changes or being severely anxious or agitated, particularly when experiencing some of the warning signs listed above

Tips to prevent suicidal ideation

Here are some tips Healthline outlines for preventing suicidal ideation:

• Knowing your triggers for depression and suicidal ideation can help you avoid or better manage these triggers in the future.
• Keep track of situations you find stressful and how you handle them.
• Keep a journal to help you understand and manage your feelings.
• Find ways to relieve stress, such as physical activity or talking with a friend.
• Seek help at the first signs of depression.

Mayo Clinic also clarifies that suicidal ideation does not go away on its own, and therefore it is vital to reach out to loved ones, doctors, helpline numbers or spiritual leaders.  

Note: If you or someone you know is experiencing depression or going through a crisis, Republic World urges you to reach out to suicide helpline numbers. Below are mental health helpline and suicide prevention contact details.  

AASRA – We’re Here To Help
91-9820466726
Timings: 24*7
Languages: English, Hindi

Sanjeevani (Delhi) 
011 24311918, 011 24318883
Mon-Fri (10am-5.30pm)

Fortis Stress Helpline (Delhi) 
+918376804102
Timing: 24X7