THE WELLNESS WIRE
Understanding and Supporting Suicide Prevention
In this issue, we’re addressing a topic that touches many lives yet is often shrouded in misunderstanding: suicide prevention. By discussing this openly, we hope to foster a supportive community where everyone feels seen and heard.
Dispelling Myths About Suicide
Myth 1: “People who talk about suicide won’t really do it.”
Truth: Often, people contemplating suicide may speak about it or show other
warning signs. Taking every mention seriously is vital.
Myth 2: “Mentioning suicide might encourage it.”
Truth: Talking about suicide in a sensitive and non-judgmental way can provide relief and be a crucial step in seeking help.
Myth 3: “Only people with mental disorders are suicidal.”
Truth: While mental health conditions can be a factor, various circumstances can lead an individual to consider suicide.
Recognising Early Warning Signs
Changes in Behaviour: Withdrawing from social interactions, neglecting personal
appearance, or unusual mood swings.
Verbal Hints: Statements like “I’m a burden” or “I wish I wasn’t here.”
Physical Signs: Unexplained injuries or changes in sleeping or eating habits.
Be the lighthouse, not the tugboat
How to Support Someone Who May Be Suicidal
- Listen Without Judgement: Give them 100% of your attention. Show empathy and understanding.
- Take Them Seriously: If someone expresses suicidal thoughts, always take them seriously and encourage professional help. Never dismiss what they say.
- Highlight support: We can’t force them to get help, but we can highlight the available help. But if in doubt, call 999.
- What’s happened?: You can ask what has brought them to this conclusion and allow them to speak about it. This can help them see other options.
- Talk about whatever they want: It’s surprising how many suicide intervention conversations are not talking about what’s happened or suicide; it’s often about random or even light-hearted topics. This is fine, as it can interrupt suicidal thoughts.
CREATE A CRISIS PLAN
You can always create a personal crisis plan. This includes personal and professional contacts, coping strategies, your reasons not to act on the thoughts, things to avoid saying or doing and anything else you may need someone to know to help you. Share this with someone you trust.