By: Divya Krishna, Rehabilitation Psychologist & ABA Therapist, Prayatna, Kochi
The feeling that life is no longer worth living is a profound human struggle. When a person believes their existence has no purpose, the risk of suicide increases. The reasons behind these feelings are often complex, involving a combination of individual, social, and environmental factors.
It’s a common misconception that people who talk about suicide are just seeking attention. The reality is that most people who die by suicide have given some clue or warning beforehand. These signals, no matter how subtle, should always be taken seriously.
Why Do These Thoughts Keep Coming Back?
First, and most importantly, recurring suicidal thoughts are not a character flaw or a sign of weakness. They are often a symptom of an overwhelming pain.
When we are in intense emotional or physical pain from depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, or unbearable life stress, our brain desperately searches for a way out. Sometimes, it latches onto the idea of suicide as the only solution to stop the pain. The thought isn’t about a desire to die, but , the idea of having an “exit” can feel strangely comforting, making the brain return to it.
Warning Signs
It’s important to recognize the warning signs of suicidal behavior, as these are often cries for help. While they can vary from person to person, some common indicators include talking about wanting to die or expressing feelings of hopelessness and being a burden to others. A person might also show a sudden change in behavior, such as withdrawing from social activities, giving away possessions, or an increase in substance use.
Another significant sign to watch for is a sudden shift from a severely depressed state to a sense of calmness or happiness, which can indicate that the individual has made a decision to attempt suicide. Other warning signs include reckless or dangerous behavior, and searching for a way to end their life. If you notice these signs in someone, it is crucial to take them seriously and seek help.
How to Prevent acting on These Thoughts: Practical Steps
Prevention is a journey, not a single act.
1. Create Distance Between Thought and Action: When a thought arises, tell yourself, “I will not act on this today.” Suicidal crisis is often intense but temporary. This pause can be life-saving.
2. Reach Out. Don’t have to carry this weight alone: Call a Mental Health & Counselling helpline. Government as well as NGOs offer the help of trained professionals or tell One Person. Text a friend, family member, or therapist.
3. Seek Professional Help: This is the cornerstone of long-term prevention. Therapists can provide tools like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to rewrite those painful thought patterns. Psychiatrists can help determine if medication could relieve the underlying conditions fueling the thoughts.
let’s remember that pain is temporary, but loss is permanent.