don’t we all feel that way sometimes? That’s the
key - sometimes. It’s not normal to feel that way
for a long time. For some people, the feelings
of hopelessness and despair that accompany
depression are more than they are equipped to
cope with and, as a result of this lack of coping
skills, some take the option of suicide.
5. changes in personality
or behavior
There may be changes in the person’s behavior
including withdrawal , loss of interest in
personal care and appearance, angry outbursts,
and absenteeism from work or school. Their
performance at work or school will often decline
as well.
6. increased use of drugs
and/or alcohol
People who have difficulty in coping with
problems will sometimes turn to substances such
as alcohol or illicit and prescription drugs for
relief. Abuse of these substances tends to lower
inhibitions leading to an increase in risk-taking
behavior. Drug and alcohol abuse is often linked
to suicide.
7. behavioral disturbances
Behavioral disturbances such as anger,
aggression, stealing, impulsive behaviors,
isolation, and drug and alcohol abuse can be a
sign of increased suicide risk. Sometimes, people
who are particularly vulnerable may act out their
feelings in a potentially destructive manner.
8. psychiatric illness
In some illnesses such as schizophrenia, it is
not uncommon to hear voices. This can be a
contributing factor in suicide if these voices are
telling the person to take their own life even if
that person does not want to die.
9. preparation for death
Preparation for death often includes such things
as making a will, saying goodbye to people,
apologizing for past misdemeanors, and giving
away their possessions, particularly their favorite
things. They may also acquire the means to kill
themselves such as a gun, rope, or pills.
10. a sudden lift
in spirits
If a person has a sudden lift in spirits, particularly
after depression, it is often a significant factor. It
can mean that the person is relieved because he
or she has made a definite decision to take his or
her life and that the problems and their resultant
unhappiness will soon be ended. They will often
have more energy at this point to end their life.
Although not everyone displays these warning
behaviors, a large percentage of people do display
some of them. Encouraging the person to talk
about their feelings, including their intended
suicide, can be just what they need. No matter
how uncomfortable you feel about the subject,
it is important not to judge. A listening ear can
make all the difference.
Article by Anne Wolski
WomanToWomanMagazine.com 13
/WomanToWomanMagazine.com
