Self-harm and Suicide

Kids at risk of suicide may show signs like discussing death or abuse. Watch for self-injury. Offer support, stay calm, and seek help.

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What is Suicide?

Suicide is the act of ending one’s own life, most often as a consequence of depression or other mental disorders, or due to regretful life experiences. Suicide or self-harm is the tenth leading cause of death in the United States, according to reports from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

What are Suicidal Tendencies?

Suicidal tendency refers to an individual’s ability to have suicidal ideation or to make an attempt to take their own life.

Many people encounter suicidal thoughts in their lives when experiencing stress or depression. In most cases, these thoughts are treatable and temporary, but in some cases, they put the person at risk of attempting or completing suicide.

Who is at Risk?

Any individual can attempt suicide at any stage in life. People from different cultures and economic levels may try to end their lives. The biggest concern is that a suicide attempt can lead to life-threatening consequences.

Signs of Suicidal Thoughts

  • Thinking of dying or ending life
  • Loss of interest in things previously enjoyed
  • Feeling like a burden to the world
  • Low self-esteem
  • Highly agitated behavior
  • Increased isolation
  • Changes in eating and sleeping patterns
  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Drug usage
  • Family history of self-destruction or suicide

The signs of warning aren’t always clear and may differ from person to person. Some people may show their intentions clearly, while others might keep their suicidal thoughts and feelings a secret.

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Warning Signs to Look for in Kids

Many people do not realize that kids and teens can be at risk of attempting suicide. They also display some warning signs. If a kid is speaking about death or wanting to die, always take them seriously. A small event or issue can have a very stressful impact on a teen or a child that might not seem like a big deal to a grown-up. Children and teens might be at risk for self-destruction if they:

  • Encounter bullying
  • Lose someone dear to them
  • Experience emotional, physical, or sexual abuse
  • Hold a past of mental illness
  • Feel doubtful about their sexual orientation

Symptoms of Self-Injurious Behavior

Some signs and symptoms that you can observe to notice if a person is showing any suicidal tendencies:

  • Scars or wounds, often in patterns
  • Recent cuts, injuries, bruises, bite marks, or other injuries
  • Excessive rubbing of an area to produce a burn
  • Holding on to sharp objects
  • Frequent news of accidental damage
  • Problems in interpersonal relationships
  • Emotional and behavioral instability
  • Unpredictable nature

How Can You Help Someone in Need?

Listen carefully to your friend or loved one who hints at or talks about ending their life. Let them express themselves fully without any judgments. Notice any self-injurious behavior in the person. Tell them that you care and are there to help. Try not to overreact and stay calm.

Keep in mind: In case of immediate danger, call 911.

Offer them your help, and if they agree, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: (800) 273-TALK (8255). Or visit a professional mental health counselor or a pastor.

If you sense any threat from their text or social media posts, call the individual. If a threat is made over a phone call, ask for their location and inquire if they are alone. Keep them on the line until you get help.

Licensed mental health professionals are trained to identify the signs of suicidal behavior by asking a series of questions. Suicidal ideation is treatable, just like any other physical or mental ailment. Identifying the problem can help provide the right care and supervision at the right time.

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