What are the easy-to-miss warnings signs of suicide?

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Every year, around 800,000 people die by suicide globally. In 2018, in the UK there were 6,507 deaths by suicide (a rate of 11.2 deaths per 100,000).

These rates vary across the nations of Great Britain, with the highest rate observed in Scotland, followed by Wales and England (2018). Overall, men accounted for three-quarters of UK deaths by suicide, within the age of 45-49 (2018).

Risk factors  

The causes of suicide are many, and it is important to understand the psychological processes that underlie suicidal thoughts, and the factors that can lead to feelings of hopelessness or despair.

In addition to this, suicidal behaviours are complex, there is no single explanation or factor to determine why people die by suicide. Social, psychological and cultural factors can all interact to lead a person to suicidal thoughts or behaviour. For many people, an attempt may occur after a long period of suicidal thoughts or feelings, whilst in other cases, it may be more impulsive. It is important to recognise that suicide and suicide attempts can have lasting effects on individuals and their social networks and communities.

What are the easy-to-miss warning signs of suicide?

  • Talking about feeling hopeless, trapped, or alone.

  • Increase in alcohol/drug use.

  • Lack of interest in maintaining hygiene or appearance.

  • Giving away sentimental, expensive possessions, or making a Will.

  • Talking, writing, or reading about death more frequently, than usual.

  • Uncharacteristic, impulsive or reckless behaviour.

  • Withdrawal from family, friends and other network.

  • Acquiring a means of doing harm, such as stockpiling of medication etc.

Help and support 

If you have seriously harmed yourself, or you don’t feel that you can keep yourself safe right now seek immediate help by calling 999, or going straight to A&E.  

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts and need support, you can: 

  • Call your GP and ask for an emergency appointment 

  • Call NHS 111 (England) or NHS Direct (Wales) for out-of-hours to help  

  • Contact your mental health crisis team if you have one 

  •  Phone a free helpline such as: 

  • Samaritans offer a 24-hours a day, 7 days a week support service. Call them FREE on 116 123.

Source: World Health Organisation: Suicide Data 

Samaritans Data 2018

Bal KamalClarity Well-Being ClinicMental Health, Well-being, Counsellor, counselling, Psychotherapy, psychology, #Psychotherapy, #Well-being, Onlinetherapy, suicide, September suicide prevention month, world suicide prevention dayComment