Practical Steps to Support Someone at Risk of Suicide

As data about suicide becomes more widely reported, Hannah Pione, Digital Service Lead and CBT Therapist at Therapy For You, discusses how people can spot those at risk, start a conversation, and help save lives.

According to the latest figures published by the Office of National Statistics, 115 people die by suicide every week in the UK. Additional insight from NHS Digital also revealed that as many as 1 in 15 attempt suicide, 1 in 14 self-harm, and 1 in 5 experience suicidal thoughts.

Initiatives such as World Suicide Prevention Day have helped encourage more open dialogue about this challenging topic, so that more people can feel comfortable talking about how they feel and check-in with those they are worried about. However, while suicide rates in the UK remain consistent year-on-year, this remains a pressing matter across the country.

“Thousands of people struggle with depression every day, and many experience suicidal feelings at some point in their lives,” says Hannah Pione, Digital Service Lead and CBT Therapist at Therapy For You, the NHS Talking Therapies provider for North East and South East Essex.

“However, many are reluctant to discuss these thoughts because they worry they’d be a burden to others, are embarrassed about their situation, or simply believe their problems are too tough to overcome through talk. When individuals feel like they have to face their struggles alone, their negative thoughts can grow, transforming feelings of hope and happiness into seemingly distant, unreachable emotions.”

“As a society, we are more open to talking about suicide and other once “taboo” topics than past generations. But, it’s clear that this is an ongoing journey to ensure people can express how they feel without fear of judgement, and to help them spot when others may be struggling to cope.”

What are the signs someone may have suicidal feelings?

People take their own lives for complex reasons. The negative thoughts associated can be triggered by a wide range of factors, and manifest themselves in a variety of ways.

“Everyone copes and reacts to thoughts of suicide in their own manner,” explains Pione. “Some may feel tearful and overwhelmed by these feelings, while others are more stoic and unmotivated. In numerous situations, people with suicidal thoughts show few outward signs that they’re struggling.”

“If someone in your life has started to distance themselves from you, has suddenly lost interest in activities they once enjoyed, or frequently talks about death, it’s important to keep an eye on their words and behaviours, especially if you’re already concerned about their wellbeing.”

Pione was quick to emphasise that these indicators are not the only ones to watch for. As outlined by prominent suicide prevention charities like Samaritans and SANE, additional warnings signs may include:

Tearfulness
Persistent low mood
Increased difficulty managing everyday tasks
A sudden reluctance to respond to messages
Increased feelings of worthlessness, shame and self-hatred
Frequent discussions about feeling hopeless, or trapped
Actively seeking methods to end their life, such as stockpiling medication
Unexpected visits or calls saying goodbye, as if they won’t be seen again
An uptick in self-destructive behaviours, like drug use, dangerous driving and more

Therapy For You also stressed that anyone can develop suicidal thoughts and feelings at any time, explaining they are not restricted to any single group and can affect individuals from all walks of life.

How can I start a conversation about suicide?

The data released by a recent poll found that just 45% of participants felt comfortable talking to their friends, family and loved ones about suicidal thoughts.

While significant progress has been made to address the stigma around suicide in recent years, these figures suggest that ongoing efforts are needed to create a culture where more people at risk feel able to speak up and seek help.

“One of the best ways to encourage an open dialogue is to talk about suicide more openly,” says Pione. “Not only does it normalise these kinds of conversations in our society, but asking the people in your life who are having a hard time if they’d like to talk can be incredibly powerful.”

“Whether you want to support a friend who’s struggling to cope or check in on a family member you’re worried about – starting this conversation can feel daunting. To make this more manageable, consider asking things like “Is everything okay?” or “Is there anything you want to talk about?” to get the ball rolling.”

“As these discussions are sensitive in nature, it can also be helpful to choose a quiet, private place where you can both talk uninterrupted.”

“The goal is to open a dialogue. Asking open questions that someone can expand on are effective ways of achieving this. That means avoiding ‘yes and no’ queries, and making an effort to ask things like “How are you feeling right now?” and “Is there anything I can do to help?”

“As with any conversation, listening is really important,” concludes Pione. “So, as the discussion evolves, try to hold your judgement. You might hear things that shock or scare you, but by keeping a neutral opinion throughout, you will ensure the people you’re talking to feel empowered to continue sharing.”

Where can I find suicide support?

If you or someone you care about are struggling with suicidal feelings, organisations such as SANE and Samaritans offer dedicated helplines that operate throughout the year. Urgent support can also be accessed by calling NHS 111, and can guide you to the most appropriate service.

Saturday - November 16, 2024

Practical Steps to Support Someone at Risk of Suicide

Posted on September 3, 2024