World Suicide Prevention Day: 5 Tips to Cope With Suicidal Thoughts

We’ve all been there at some point in our lives. When you are miserable, depressed, and feel like giving up. Although suicidal thoughts can be extremely tough to deal with, there are ways to overcome them.

World Suicide Prevention Day is observed annually on 10th September to raise awareness regarding suicide and its prevention.

Suicide is a serious public health concern that is growing at an alarming pace. Here are some facts about suicide that you need to know!

Suicide facts

According to the World Health Organization (WHO):

• Suicide claims an estimated 703,000 lives every year
• Apart from those who commit suicde there is a far greater number of attempted suicde cases
• In the 15-19 year old age group suicide is the 4th leading cause of death
• Low and middle income countries have the highest percentage of suicide cases at 77%

Suicide rate in Pakistan

According to the latest data by World Population Review, the suicide rate in Pakistan in 2021 is 8.9%

Who is at a risk of suicide?

Suicide occurs in all genders and age groups so anyone could be at a risk. Here are some risk factors of suicide:

• A prior attempted suicide
• Availabiliy of guns or weapons in home
• Experience of some sort of violence, abuse or other traumatic events
• History of mental disorders in the family
• Substance abuse
• If someone in the family has commited suicde before
• Loss of a loved one
• Financial problems

Warning signs of suicide

Apart from these risk factors, there are many other warning signs you need to look out for. People who attempt suicide may withdraw themselves from their families and friends.

They may be sad, depressed, or even talk about things like death and committing suicide. Feeling guilty about oneself, mood swings and drug use are also common red flags that are prevalent in those who commit suicide.

How to Cope With Suicidal Thoughts?

Believe it or not, suicides are preventable. You need to be on the lookout for warning signs in people close to you whether it is friends, family, or your colleagues from work.

You should also care for your own mental health. If you’re having suicidal thoughts you should seek help rather than suffer alone.

Here are 5 tips to cope with suicidal thoughts:

1. Talk to someone

People who commit suicide are often lonely and may also be dealing with issues like depression. If you are having suicidal thoughts talk to a close family member or a friend you trust.

If someone you know is going through a tough time you should talk to them and make them feel better. Don’t let them go through this ordeal alone.

2. Seek professional help

People suffering from mental disorders may sometimes have to deal with suicidal thoughts.

You should seek help from a psychiatrist or psychologist in such a situation. Therapy sessions or medications can help ease your pain. They’ll also make you feel calm and better about yourself.

Umang hotline in Pakistan is a 24/7 helpline for those who need professional help. It is a cost-free way to speak to counselors, psychologists, and psychiatrists about your troubles.

3. Have a positive outlook

Ups and downs are a part of life but sometimes our bad days can be so overwhelming that they may lead to negative thoughts such as suicide.

The thing to remember here is that you should always focus on the positive instead of the negative. Even in the worst possible situation, there is always a silver lining.

Surround yourself with positive people and those who accept you for who you are. Have a positive outlook on life, and things will eventually get better.

4. Adopt healthy habits and activities

Take care of yourself and your health by adopting healthy habits. Eat well, sleep well and stay away from drugs. Exercise and meditation can also help you feel relaxed.

When your mind is preoccupied with constructive activities it won’t deviate towards suicidal thoughts.

5. Don’t wait!

If you are having suicidal thoughts or if you know someone is in trouble, you should act rather than wait. Speak to an adult or alert the authorities in an emergency.