September is Suicide Prevention Month—a time to raise awareness, share resources, and remember those affected by suicide. It’s an opportunity for us to come together as a community, educate ourselves, and take action to prevent suicide. Understanding the signs, risk factors, and knowing how to support someone in crisis can make a life-saving difference.
Recognizing the Signs
Suicide doesn’t have a single cause, and the signs can vary widely. However, there are some common indicators that someone might be struggling with suicidal thoughts:
Verbal Cues: Pay attention to statements like “I wish I were dead,” “I can’t go on,” or “Everyone would be better off without me.” Even indirect comments, such as “I just want the pain to stop,” should be taken seriously.
Behavioral Changes: Look for drastic changes in behavior, such as withdrawing from social activities, giving away belongings, or displaying sudden calmness after a period of depression (which could indicate they’ve made a decision about suicide).
Mood Changes: Extreme mood swings, prolonged sadness, irritability, or a noticeable drop in energy levels are common signs. These changes may also include expressions of hopelessness, feeling trapped, or talking about feeling like a burden.
Risky or Self-Destructive Behavior: Engaging in reckless activities, increasing substance use, or neglecting personal safety can be red flags.
Understanding the Risk Factors
Understanding risk factors can also help in identifying those who might be at greater risk for suicide. Key risk factors include:
Mental Health Conditions: Depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental health disorders can increase the risk of suicide.
Substance Abuse: Alcohol & drug abuse can exacerbate feelings of hopelessness and impulsivity, leading to an increased risk.
History of Trauma or Abuse: Experiencing violence, abuse, or a traumatic event, especially in childhood, can contribute to suicidal thoughts.
Chronic Pain or Serious Medical Conditions: Living with a chronic illness, severe pain, or significant health challenges can lead to feelings of despair.
Family History of Suicide: A family history of suicide or exposure to others’ suicidal behavior can increase risk.
Major Life Changes or Losses: Events such as the loss of a loved one, financial troubles, job loss, or relationship breakdowns can trigger suicidal thoughts.
Lack of Support Systems: Social isolation, loneliness, or a lack of support from friends and family can make coping with stress much more difficult.
Access to Means: Having access to firearms, medications, or other means can increase the risk of suicide, especially if someone is in crisis.
How to Support Someone at Risk
Supporting someone who might be considering suicide is both compassionate and crucial. Here’s how you can help:
Ask Directly: It’s a myth that talking about suicide increases the risk. In fact, asking someone directly if they’re thinking about suicide can reduce their anxiety and provide relief. Try saying, “I’ve noticed you’ve seemed really down lately. Are you thinking about hurting yourself?”
Listen with Compassion: Offer your full attention without interrupting or judging. Sometimes, just being present and listening can make all the difference. Avoid giving advice or trying to fix their problems—focus on validating their feelings.
Offer Hope and Support: Remind them that they are not alone, and that help is available. Let them know that their feelings are valid but temporary, and that with the right support, things can improve.
Encourage Professional Help: Encourage them to reach out to a mental health professional. Offer to help find resources, such as a therapist, counselor, or crisis hotline like the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988). If they’re hesitant, offer to accompany them or assist in making the initial call.
Stay Connected: Regular check-ins can provide a sense of continuity and support. Send a text, make a call, or schedule a meet-up. Your ongoing presence can be a critical lifeline.
Know When to Act Immediately: If they have a specific plan, means, or intent to carry out suicide, don’t leave them alone. Call 911, take them to the nearest emergency room, or contact a crisis service immediately.
Building a Supportive Community
Suicide Prevention Month is a reminder that every one of us has a role to play in preventing suicide. By fostering open dialogue about mental health, offering support, and being proactive in recognizing the signs and risk factors of suicide, we can create a community where individuals feel safe seeking help.
Let’s use this month to educate ourselves and others, share resources, and reach out to those who might be struggling. Together, we can help prevent suicide and offer hope to those in need.
Are you recognizing signs or risk factors of suicide in yourself or a loved one? Is it affecting your family or your own mental health? Then it might be time to seek some support. Talking with a JFS therapist can provide valuable insights and strategies to help you cope with thoughts of suicide or despair. Call (407) 644-7671 or complete our online form to request an appointment. Telehealth counseling is available. Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurances accepted, and a sliding fee scale for those who do not have insurance.
JFS Orlando’s Beyond the Counseling Couch tries to provide you with timely and relevant advice to help you along your wellness journey. Are there any topics YOU would like us to cover? Let us know your ideas or questions! Email JFS Clinical Director, Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes, at Ashlyn@JFSorlando.org or comment below.
About the Author: Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes, LCSW is the Clinical Director and a licensed clinical social worker at JFS Orlando. Ashlyn has worked in a variety of settings including outpatient community based mental health, inpatient/admission psychiatric hospital, substance abuse/DUI, dialysis/medical, and in home/office outpatient therapy.
