September was National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and as such it’s important to discuss the ways in which we can support our friends and loved ones who struggle with mental health. Suicidal thoughts can happen to anyone and are often the result of an untreated medical condition. Although these kinds of thoughts are common they should in no way be treated as normal. If you or someone you love struggles with suicidal thoughts it’s important to seek help right away. However, in seeking mental health treatment in St. Paul you must be able to detect some of the signs of suicidal intentions. Here is a short but not exhaustive list of the warning signs of suicide according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
- Threats or comments about killing oneself. These are referred to as suicidal ideation, and can be anything from overt statements to seemingly harmless thoughts like, “I wish I wasn’t here.”.
- Increased drug and alcohol use. Substance abuse alone is a problem but it also can be indicative of a greater mental health issue.
- Aggressive and/or volatile behavior.
- Social withdrawal from friends, family, and the community. This can also manifest as someone no longer enjoying the activities or people they used to.
- Dramatic mood swings.
- Talking, writing, or thinking excessively about death, particularly their own.
- Impulsive or reckless behavior.
Talking to your loved one about the suicidal behavior they’re exhibiting is an extremely difficult conversation, but it’s one that could end in a life being saved. Research shows that 90% of people who die by suicide suffer from mental illness. This means that many of these deaths may be prevented with the right diagnosis and treatment. Recognizing a problem and seeking help is the hardest part in the path toward recovery. But when it’s a life or death situation, that path is well worth it.
If you or someone you love struggles with mental health or suicidal thoughts call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255. Options Family & Behavior Services also offers mental health treatment in St. Paul. We want to help you or a loved one start a path toward mental health recovery. Learn more about our mental health treatment in St. Paul by calling us today.
