Suicide is often linked to depression. According to data from the State of Connecticut, the reality is that the risk of suicide in people with major depression is about 20 times that of the general population. However, you or a loved one can be suicidal without being depressed.
This blog post will explain some of the other risk factors of suicide beyond depression in hopes of bringing awareness to this important issue. It includes some practical tips for things you can do if you are feeling suicidal.
If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide and need immediate support, help is available at the 988 Lifeline.
Suicidal Risk Factors Beyond Depression
There are several reasons and risk factors a person might feel suicidal. Anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are two mental health disorders that can be so significant they cause suicidal thoughts. Substance use disorders that lead to drug and alcohol misuse can impair a person’s judgement while increasing their impulsivity. People who suffer from chronic pain may have feelings of despair, which can put them at risk for suicidal thoughts.
Life events and a person’s environment can also play a role. The loss of a job or financial or legal problems might leave a person feeling like they are in crisis mode. A lack of social connection or extreme loneliness can contribute to feelings of hopelessness and a lack of purpose. Grief and loss experienced due to the death of a loved one can also cause severe emotional distress.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) summarizes it well: “Suicide is complex and determined by multiple combinations of factors, such as mental illness, substance misuse, trauma, painful losses, exposure to violence, and social isolation.” You can be suicidal without being depressed.
Recognizing the Warning Signs of Suicide
Recognizing the warning signs of suicide can help set the stage for intervention and prevention. Some common warning signs, according to a flyer published through SAMHSA, include:
- Talking about being a burden to others.
- Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.
- Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.
What to Do If You Or a Loved One Are Feeling Suicidal
If you or a loved one are feeling suicidal, there are several things you can do. Here are three:
- Connect with someone you trust. Simply telling a friend or family member you trust can provide relief, and having a safe space to share and process your emotions is so important.
- Use coping strategies. While different things will work for different people, finding activities that alter and improve your mood while shifting the focus of your thoughts is extremely powerful. This could include mindfulness activities such as 4-7-8 breathing (breathing in for four seconds, holding for seven seconds, exhaling for eight seconds) or coloring while listening to music. Exercise (as simple as a walk) is another proven way to release endorphins in your body, which will improve your mood. Finally, some people find journaling a great way to get negative thoughts out of their head.
- Get professional help. Hotlines and emergency support services are available if you or a loved one are in a crisis. If you are not in crisis but have been struggling with thoughts of suicide and know that you would benefit from support, consider therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), in particular, has been proven to help manage suicidal thoughts and change thought patterns.
Parkdale Center Can Help
Our treatment center offers a variety of therapy options, including dual-diagnosis treatment. There is a strong connection between substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health disorders, and treating them simultaneously has proven the best way to achieve lasting recovery and positive outcomes. You can be suicidal without being depressed. If you or your loved one have had thoughts of suicide, please reach out to us today. You deserve a life of fulfillment and joy, free from thoughts of suicide.