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Signs and symptoms of suicidal behaviours

Suicide in many cases can be prevented. By becoming familiar with the risk factors and symptoms.

According to Cleveland Clinic suicide is defined as a deliberate act of self-harm with the goal of ending one’s life.

Although suicide is not a form of mental illness states WebMD, it is a serious potential consequence of several treatable mental disorders, such as major depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, anxiety disorders, and eating disorders like bulimia and anorexia nervosa.

According to WebMD and Cleveland Clinic , here are potential warning signs for suicide:

Hopelessness: having a profound sense of hopelessness about the future and little faith in the possibility of things getting better.

Severe sadness or moodiness: Long-lasting sadness, mood swings, and unexpected rage.

Change in behaviors and sleep pattern: A change in attitude or conduct occurs, such as speaking or moving unusually quickly or slowly. Additionally, they abruptly start to care less about how they look. They sleep far more or far less than would be expected for that person.

Displaying dangerous or self-harming behavior: The individual participates in potentially harmful conduct, such as irresponsible driving, unsafe sex, or increased drug and/or alcohol consumption.

Recent trauma or life crisis: An attempted suicide could be caused by a serious life crisis. Crises might include losing a loved one or a pet, ending a relationship, receiving a critical sickness diagnosis, losing a job, or experiencing significant financial difficulties.

Making preparations: A person who is thinking about suicide will frequently start to organise their personal affairs. This could entail paying visits to friends and family members, donating personal items, creating a will, and decluttering their space. Before committing suicide, some people will compose a message. Some people will purchase a gun or another weapon, such poison. Others will search online how to kill themselves.

Please make use of the Suicide Crisis Line as together we can help save life.

0800 567 567

Also see: How to prioritise your heart health when living a stressful lifestyle

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