Now that the Holidays are over, reality sets in that there is a New Year ahead. For some, this is an exciting time to make changes to compensate for last year’s mistakes, and for others, fear paralyzes them completely. Instead of being confident of what the New Year can bring to them, they cannot get past what the previous year refused them. With all the negativity they feel over what they were not able to accomplish over 365 days, they could begin to wish for the end rather than be hopeful for the days to come.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health’s (NIMH) latest statistics, suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. In 2017, suicide took the lives of over 47,000 people with firearms, suffocation which includes hangings, and poisoning being the top three ways people executed their own deaths.
With these statistics at hand, trying to see the warning signs of suicide among loved ones is imperative especially going into this New Year. Here are some factors to watch for when you are concerned about a loved one.
Suicide ideation
You may think someone is joking or that they would never pull off their threats of suicide, but any mention of suicide should be taken seriously. If you hear someone threatening to hurt themselves or wanting to die and know they are in possession of something that could cause their death, do something. Call 911 and start getting them the mental health care they need.
Addiction
Drugs and alcohol make someone feel worthless and less than. Not to mention when someone is under the influence, they are not in their right mind and often in despair. They could attempt suicide when they get to a breaking point which they may not try without the effects of drugs and alcohol leading them there. Keep in mind there are many debates that question whether overdose is an accident or suicide, and once someone is gone, they are unable to give the correct answer. A drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility can help to change their perspective into a sober one worth living for before it is too late.
Depression
Being in the grips of depression can make those who suffer from the debilitating symptoms feel completely hopeless as though they have nothing left to live for. The World Health Organization states that depression at its worst can lead to suicide. When you suspect someone is depressed, monitoring them would be a good idea along with getting them into professional treatment for depression.
Even though you may not believe in New Year’s resolutions, you can still resolve to assist those who may be displaying suicidal tendencies. Guiding them to get the help they need could save their life.
If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255
1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Text 741-741 from anywhere in the USA, anytime, about any type of crisis
