Coping With Suicidal Thoughts Like I Want To Die
Introduction
Suicidal thoughts are one of the most complex and challenging experiences that anyone can face. When suicidal thoughts become persistent, they can make life seem unbearable, and it may start to feel like there is no other way but to die. If you’re feeling hopeless, it’s essential to know that you’re not alone. Many people experience suicidal thoughts, and it’s okay to seek help. Coping with suicidal thoughts can be challenging, but there are ways to manage them and move forward.
Understanding Suicidal Thoughts
Suicide is a leading cause of death globally, and the number keeps increasing each year. Suicide can be defined as the intentional act of ending one’s life. Suicide ideation, on the other hand, refers to the thoughts and feelings about suicide. These can range from fleeting thoughts to detailed plans on how to end one’s life. Thoughts of suicide can often come when a person is overwhelmed with negative thoughts, feelings, or circumstances in their life. The feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and worthlessness can lead to suicidal thoughts.
Signs of Suicidal Thoughts
It’s essential to recognize the signs of suicidal thoughts as this can help you or someone you know to seek help. Some of the signs of suicidal thoughts include:
- Talking about wanting to die or end one’s life
- Feeling hopeless, helpless or worthless
- Expressing feelings of being a burden to others
- Engaging in reckless or risky behavior
- Withdrawing from social activities or friends and family
- Having difficulty sleeping or eating regularly
- Expressing feelings of being trapped or in unbearable pain
- Talking about feeling anxious or agitated
- Increased alcohol or drug use
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these signs, it’s essential to get help as soon as possible.
Ways to Cope with Suicidal Thoughts
It’s natural to feel overwhelmed when faced with suicidal thoughts, and it may seem hard to manage. However, there are ways to cope with suicidal thoughts, and they include:
1. Seek Help
The first step in coping with suicidal thoughts is seeking help. Talking to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional can help you feel heard, understood, and supported. If you’re hesitant about talking to someone you know, you can contact a crisis helpline such as Lifeline, Beyond Blue or the Suicide Call Back Service. These helplines offer free and confidential support 24/7.
2. Create a Safety Plan
Creating a safety plan can help you during moments of crisis. A safety plan involves identifying your warning signs, coping strategies, and people you can contact in times of need. Having a safety plan can help you feel more in control during difficult times.
3. Practice Self-Care
Engaging in self-care activities is essential in managing suicidal thoughts. Self-care activities include getting enough rest, having a healthy diet, doing regular exercise, and avoiding alcohol and drugs. Participating in activities you enjoy, such as hobbies, reading, or spending time outdoors, can help boost your mood and reduce stress.
4. Challenge Negative Thoughts
Negative thoughts can be pervasive and harmful. They can intensify suicidal ideation and leave you feeling hopeless. Challenging negative thoughts involves questioning their validity and replacing them with more positive and realistic thoughts. For example, if the thoughts are “I’m worthless” replace them with “I may have made mistakes, but that doesn’t make me worthless.”
5. Reduce Stress
Stress is a significant trigger for suicidal thoughts. Reducing stress involves finding healthy ways to manage stress, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or mindfulness. Taking breaks or engaging in simple pleasures like reading, watching a movie, or spending time with loved ones can help reduce stress.
Getting Professional Help
If you’re experiencing persistent and overwhelming thoughts of suicide, seeking professional help is highly recommended. A mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist or counselor, can help you develop strategies to manage suicidal thoughts and will work with you to address the underlying mental health concerns that may be contributing to suicidal thoughts.
Conclusion
Coping with suicidal thoughts can take time, effort and patience. It’s important to remember that with support and the right strategies, suicidal thoughts can be managed safely. Seeking help, creating a safety plan, practicing self-care, challenging negative thoughts, reducing stress can all help in coping with suicidal thoughts. If you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts, don’t hesitate to seek help. Remember, you’re not alone, and it’s okay to ask for help.
FAQs
FAQs About Coping With Suicidal Thoughts Like I Want To Die
1. What should I do if I am having suicidal thoughts?
If you are having suicidal thoughts or ideation, it’s important to seek professional help immediately. Speak to your doctor or mental health professional and reach out to support services. You can also call a crisis helpline or emergency services for immediate assistance.
2. What coping strategies can I use for suicidal thoughts?
Healthy coping mechanisms for suicidal thoughts include talking to a trusted friend or family member, engaging in self-care activities, such as exercise or meditation, and seeking professional help. It’s important to identify your triggers and develop a safety plan with your mental health professional.
3. How can I support someone with suicidal thoughts?
If someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, it’s essential to take their concerns seriously and encourage them to seek professional help. Listen to them with empathy and without judgment. You can also provide them with the resources to reach out for help and offer to go with them to appointments. It’s crucial to check in on them regularly and offer ongoing support.
References
1. Joiner, T. E. (2005). Why people die by suicide. Harvard University Press.
2. Brown, G. K., Ten Have, T., Henriques, G. R., Xie, S. X., Hollander, J. E., & Beck, A. T. (2005). Cognitive therapy for the prevention of suicide attempts: A randomized controlled trial. JAMA, 294(5), 563-570.
3. O’Connor, R. C., & Nock, M. K. (2014). The psychology of suicidal behaviour. The Lancet Psychiatry, 1(1), 73-85.