On World Suicide Prevention Day 2024, step up and make a difference by helping those in need. Below are five ways you can help someone struggling with suicidal thoughts.
September 10th is World Suicide Prevention Day. It is celebrated every year to raise awareness about suicide and promote mental health. The day aims to shed light on the global problem of suicide, provide information about its causes and promote ways to help those struggling with suicidal thoughts. Globally, more than 720,000 people die by suicide each year and it is the third leading cause of death among young people aged 15 to 29.
Photo gallery: Celebrities who committed suicide due to depression
If someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, it can be overwhelming and scary, but your support can make a big difference. Here are five ways you can help someone who may be thinking about suicide.
5 Ways to Help Someone Who Is Having Suicidal Thoughts
- Listen without judgment: One of the most important things you can do for someone who is struggling is to listen with compassion and without judgment. People who experience suicidal thoughts often feel alone, ignored, or misunderstood. By offering them a safe space to talk openly about their feelings, you show them that you care and that their feelings are valid.
- Encourage professional help: While your support is essential, professional guidance is also important for someone in crisis. Encourage them to seek help from a therapist, counselor, or doctor. There are also hotlines and online support services available 24/7, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline or the Crisis Text Line.
- Stay in touch and follow up: Isolation can make suicidal thoughts worse. Staying in touch with someone who is going through a difficult time lets them know they are not alone and that someone cares. Keep in touch with them regularly through texts, calls, or visits to offer emotional support and reinforce the idea that they are important.
- Removing access to harmful means: If someone is actively considering suicide, it is essential to minimize their access to dangerous tools or methods. Removing potential means of self-harm, such as weapons, medications, or sharp objects, can reduce the immediate risk.
- Watch for warning signs: Recognizing the warning signs of suicide is essential to providing timely help. Some signs include talking about death or suicide, withdrawing from social activities, mood changes, or being left alone. If you notice these behavioral changes, take them seriously and respond with care and concern.
Helping someone who is having suicidal thoughts requires empathy, understanding, and action. On this day, step up and make a difference by helping those who need help. Remember that every conversation counts and help is always available.
