By: Dr. Halee Mak People often falsely believe that suicide is only a direct result of depression. While there is an increased risk of suicide in depressed people, not everyone who attempts or commits suicide is clinically depressed. Individual risks include: Easy ACCESS to weapons or lethal means Major illness Previous attempts Brain injuries Anxiety Impulsive behavior Substance use History of trauma or abuse Family history of suicide A recent triggering- stressful event Suicide is hopelessness, shame, pain, and the inability to see past the moment. Simply telling someone who wants to end their life that "it's not that bad, prayer will solve this, or you will get over it" is not enough and it invalidates their experience. Perhaps the most tragic form of human loss: Sometimes we could have done more to help, sometimes there is nothing we could have done. This is the guilt of those left by the deceased. RESOURCES: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Call 1-800-273-8255 Available 24 hours everyday The Trevor Project 1-866-488-7386 24 hours everyday Trans Lifeline US: (877) 565-8860 Trans Lifeline operators are available 18 hours a day every day of the week. Pacific time: 8am to 2am Mountain time: 9am to 3am Central time: 10am to 4am Eastern time: 11am to 5am Also review the suicide prevention directory here  |
