In depression counseling, I see a lot of the unfortunate byproducts of depression in my patients, including damaged personal relationships, lost jobs and substance abuse. The worst byproduct of depression, by far, is suicide. Though depression isn’t the only trigger for suicide, it is the most common one; and often, the depression is undiagnosed, which means that the person suffering has not had the opportunity to benefit from depression counseling. In counseling, patients learn coping skills they can use to deal with the stressors that can cause them to have suicidal thoughts. Some of them also indulge to buy kratom online to bring relief to mind and body.
The Risk Factors For Suicide
Risk factors are characteristics and/or conditions that make it more likely that someone will contemplate or attempt suicide. The risk factors include:
- Health Factors – Mental health conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, borderline personality disorder, anxiety disorder and conduct disorders as well as substance abuse, chronic pain and serious medical problems
- Environmental Factors – Stressful life events like divorce or death, prolonged stressors like harassment, bullying or unemployment, or even exposure to the suicide of another person
- Historical Factors – Previous suicide attempts or a family history of suicide
The Warning Signs Of Suicide
For someone who is concerned that a friend or loved one is contemplating suicide, there are a number of signs to watch for, the most important of which is a change in behavior or a new behavior. Changes in behavior are especially significant if they come on the heels of a painful event, loss or change. The fact is that most people who are considering suicide communicate their intentions either verbally or through their actions. Here are some signs to watch for:
- Verbal Signs – Talk of being a burden to others, feeling trapped in their situation, feeling that they have no reason to live, unbearable pain they’re experiencing or, most obviously, wanting to kill themselves
- Behavioral Signs – Increased substance abuse, behaving recklessly, withdrawing from activities and isolating themselves from friends and family, disturbed sleep patterns, calling people to say goodbye, giving away their possessions
- Emotional Signs – Depression, loss of interest in life, anger or rage, irritability and anxiety
If you or someone you know is talking or thinking about committing suicide, depression may be the cause and depression counseling may be able to help. No matter what kind of help you reach out for, it is vital that you act quickly for yourself or someone else before thoughts turn to actions; and it is vital to know the warning signs of suicide to watch for. Call me, Jody VanDrimmelen at Insight Child & Family Counseling, at (972) 426-9500 or visit www.j9n.83e.myftpupload.com to schedule an appointment.