Suicide Prevention: Identifying Risks and Finding Help
Harshitha Chaganti
September 2024
Trigger warning: This article mentions topics regarding self-harm and mental health
In honor of September being suicide awareness month….
With the growing presence of social media, bullying (whether online or off), and other stressors, surround the lives of the youth. Due to this, they are unfortunately placed at a higher risk of either suicidal thoughts or attempting suicide. Social media can create unrealistic comparisons, amplify feelings of inadequacy, and expose individuals to cyberbullying, while traditional bullying can reinforce the feeling of isolation among peers adding to the burden. Combined with academic pressures, family issues, and peer-related stress, these factors can create a perfect storm of psychological strain, making it increasingly difficult for young people to find relief or support.
The term suicide has become alarmingly common in modern society, especially among teens and children, who often use it casually without fully grasping the gravity behind it. In many cases, it is spoken about lightly in conversation or as part of dark humor, which diminishes the true weight of the subject.
What many aren’t aware of is that there are multiple types of suicide, each with its own psychological and sociological causes. As reported by, French sociologist Émile Durkheim, who was one of the first to systematically study suicide, these types can be categorized into four distinct forms: egoistic suicide, altruistic suicide, anomic suicide, and fatalistic suicide.
Egoistic Suicide occurs when individuals feels profoundly disconnected from their social environment, experiencing deep isolation and lack of purpose. Altruistic Suicide happens when individuals, deeply integrated into a group or society, sacrifice their own lives for what they believe is a greater good or cultural obligation. Anomic Suicide is associated with significant societal or economic disruptions that lead to feeling of normlessness and instability, making individuals feel disoriented and overwhelmed. Fatalistic Suicide arises from extreme regulation and control over one’s life, leading to a sense of entrapment and hopelessness, often in highly restrictive or oppressive condition[2]
Those who are considering self-harm often exhibit several warning signs, which can vary in intensity. Common indicators are:
- Behavioral Changes: Sudden withdrawal from social groups, changes in eating and/or sleeping patterns, as well as a noticeable decline in work performance are telling signs of suicidal thinking.
- Emotional Distress: People who are suicidal tend to have expressions of deep sadness, worthlessness, hopelessness and incressed irritability/ mood swings.
- Physical Signs: Unexplained cuts, bruises, or burns, often hidden under clothing, or frequent wearing of long sleeves and pants, even in warm weather.
- Preoccupation with Death: An unusual focus on themes of death or dying, including talking about or engaging with violent or morbid content.
Noticing these signs is important for getting help quickly. If you or someone you know shows these signs, it’s crucial to seek help from a mental health professional. Early support can make a big difference in managing these issues and preventing harm.
If you or someone you know is struggling with self-harm or suicidal thoughts, it’s important to get help right away. Start by talking to a trusted friend or family member, and seek support from a mental health professional like a therapist or counselor. For immediate help, call a crisis hotline such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK, or use other local hotlines. You can also visit a healthcare provider for advice and referrals. Online resources and counseling services are also available for immediate support. Taking these steps can connect you with the help and support needed.
In conclusion, it’s crucial to recognize the signs of self-harm and suicidal thoughts and seek help quickly. Talking to trusted people, contacting mental health professionals, and using crisis resources can provide the support needed to address these challenges and find hope. Remember, reaching out for help is a positive step towards recovery.
References
[1] Facts About Suicide | Suicide Prevention. (2024, April 25). CDC. Retrieved September 14, 2024, from https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/facts/index.html
[2] Singh, A. (2020, March 30). Four Types of Suicides – MDIS Blog. Management Development Institute of Singapore (MDIS). Retrieved September 14, 2024, from https://www.mdis.edu.sg/blog/four-types-of-suicides/
[3] Warning Signs of Suicide – Suicide Prevention Resource Center. (n.d.). Suicide Prevention Resource Center. Retrieved September 14, 2024, from https://sprc.org/warning-signs-for-suicide/
