Someone Wants To Suicide – Understanding the Weight of Emotional Distress
At any stage of life, a person can feel overwhelmed by depression, sadness, anger, or resentment. These emotions often stem from external pressures like work demands, strained relationships, academic challenges, family dynamics, and social struggles. Life’s complexities can weigh heavily, especially when these challenges pile up and feel never-ending. If you know that someone wants to suicide, it is vital that you are able to provide them with any support or refer them to support networks necessary.
For many people, sadness and hopelessness are temporary. They confront these feelings, work through them, and eventually move forward. But for some, these emotions persist and intensify, creating a mental and emotional burden that feels impossible to escape. When this happens, individuals may begin to believe there is no way out, leading them to think about or act on suicidal thoughts.
It’s critical to recognize that suicidal thoughts are not a sign of weakness, but rather a signal of overwhelming emotional pain. Addressing these feelings with care, empathy, and understanding can make all the difference. By learning to spot the signs and knowing how to respond effectively, we can help those struggling find hope and healing.
Every life matters, and taking steps to support someone who feels hopeless can save their life. Let’s explore how to recognize, respond to, and assist someone who is considering suicide.
Recognizing the Warning Signs of Depression and Suicidal Thoughts
Sometimes, emotional pain doesn’t fade with time—it lingers and grows, leaving a person feeling trapped and overwhelmed. When sadness, frustration, or hopelessness just won’t go away, it can evolve into depression. Depression isn’t simply a bad mood; it’s a mental health condition that reshapes how someone views their life, relationships, and sense of self.
Simple tasks that once felt manageable can suddenly seem insurmountable. A quick errand, answering a call, or even getting out of bed may feel like monumental challenges. For those affected, depression often brings along a heavy burden of emotions such as shame, irritability, loneliness, exhaustion, and hopelessness. They may feel disconnected from others or as though they are “trapped” in their daily routines with no escape.
Emotional and Behavioral Warning Signs
When depression deepens, it can lead to behaviors or thoughts that signal a higher risk of suicide. One of the most common signs is an increased reliance on alcohol or drugs as a way to escape or numb emotional pain. People may withdraw from their loved ones, spending less time with family and friends or completely pulling away from social activities. This withdrawal often coincides with a loss of interest in hobbies or passions that previously brought them joy.
Other behaviors may include writing goodbye letters, leaving behind farewell messages, or giving away personal possessions, all of which are red flags of suicidal ideation. Reckless or uncharacteristic risk-taking—such as driving dangerously or making impulsive decisions—may also be a warning sign. Emotional instability can lead to crying spells, intense outbursts, and unpredictable mood swings, adding to the complexity of their distress.
Physical Changes to Watch For
Depression and suicidal thoughts often manifest physically. Changes in sleep patterns are common, with some individuals experiencing chronic insomnia while others may sleep excessively as a way to avoid their struggles. Fatigue and a lack of energy are nearly universal, even after adequate rest. Neglect of personal hygiene or appearance can signal that someone has lost the motivation or will to care for themselves.
Other physical indicators include sudden weight loss or gain, often tied to shifts in appetite. For some, depression manifests as chronic pain or unexplained physical symptoms, such as headaches or body aches, which can further compound their sense of hopelessness. These physical changes, combined with behavioral signs, create a clear picture of someone struggling with overwhelming emotional distress.
How to Help Someone Exhibiting These Signs
If someone you care about shows any combination of these signs, it’s vital to approach them with care and compassion. Start by initiating an open conversation. Ask them how they’re feeling and let them know you’re genuinely concerned. Use statements like, “I’ve noticed you’ve been feeling down lately—do you want to talk about it?” or “I care about you, and I want to understand how I can help.”
Avoid dismissing their feelings with phrases like, “It’s not that bad” or “Just cheer up.” Instead, validate their emotions and provide a safe space for them to share. Listening without judgment can alleviate feelings of isolation and let them know they aren’t alone.
If you suspect they are in immediate danger, do not leave them alone. Stay with them and ensure they receive professional support. Contact a crisis helpline, a trusted mental health professional, or emergency services to prioritize their safety. Acting quickly and empathetically could be the difference between life and death.
The Importance of Telling Someone and Seeking Help
When someone you know is struggling with depression or exhibiting signs of suicidal thoughts, your instinct may be to keep their situation private out of respect for their wishes. However, in these situations, secrecy can be dangerous. While it’s important to handle the matter with care and sensitivity, sharing your concerns with trusted individuals or professionals can make all the difference in helping that person regain control of their mental health.
If a friend or loved one confides in you, it’s crucial to honor their trust while also prioritizing their safety. Talk to others who can support you in watching over this person—whether it’s mutual friends, family members, or colleagues. Having a small network of people who are aware of the situation ensures that you’re not alone in helping them. This collective effort provides consistent monitoring and care, making it easier to guide them toward recovery.
Professional Help Is Vital And Always Available
Professional help should always be a top priority. There are countless free resources available 24/7, including online, telephonic, and in-person crisis services. These organizations are staffed with trained professionals who can provide immediate advice, support, and intervention when necessary. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area or encourage the person in distress to do so. Many crisis lines work closely with local health services to coordinate intervention and offer tailored support when required.
Additionally, involving friends or trusted individuals in the person’s life can help reinforce the support system they need. Sometimes hearing concern from multiple people can make them feel valued and motivate them to seek help. Remember, you don’t need to navigate this situation alone. Rely on the expertise of professionals and the collective support of others to ensure the individual’s safety and emotional well-being.
They said they wanted to end it
So you have spoken with your friend and they may have opened up to you that they feel hopeless or out of control and they have said to you –
‘No-one can help me, it is hopeless’
‘There is no way out of this mess’
‘I just don’t fit in anywhere and never will’
‘What’s the point anyway – its never going to be better’
‘Its always my fault – I am to blame anyway.’
‘I am always on my own – no-one cares’
‘I am damaged and nothing can ever repair me’
OR MORE DIRECTLY
Written a suicide note or talking about death as being an option out.
Say they want to end it, or kill themselves, or want to check out.
Immediately let them know you are concerned and care. Ask if they have made any plans. Take immediate action and do not assume they will get better by themselves. Encourage them to get professional help on their behalf and do not leave it up to them contact 000, the emergency psychiatric team at your local hospital or contact online help for intervention. It is better to have this person assessed safely, with or without their agreement, than take the risk that they may injure or carry out their thoughts.
10 Things You Should Never Say to Someone Talking About Suicide
When someone talks about suicide, it’s a cry for help, not a moment for judgment or criticism. While it’s natural to feel overwhelmed or unsure of what to say, some phrases can unintentionally make things worse. Here are ten things you should avoid saying and why they can be harmful.
1. “Why are you talking about this stuff? Life is not so bad!”
Telling someone their feelings are unwarranted dismisses their experience. What seems manageable to one person may feel unbearable to another. Instead, acknowledge their pain by saying something like, “I’m sorry you’re feeling this way—let’s talk about what’s going on.”
2. “How do you think this will affect others around you? How can you be so unkind not to think of hurting others!”
Although well-intentioned, this statement can make someone feel guiltier and even more isolated. Suicidal individuals are often already battling feelings of shame. Instead, focus on offering support, saying, “I care about you and want to help you through this.”
3. “Suicide is selfish!”
This phrase perpetuates stigma and invalidates their pain. People contemplating suicide often feel they’re a burden and believe their actions might relieve others. Avoid judgmental remarks and prioritize compassion instead.
4. “It’s a cop-out, cowardly, or an easy way out!”
Suicide is not a sign of weakness—it’s the result of unbearable emotional distress. Such statements can make the person feel ashamed for even opening up. A more empathetic approach is to ask, “What’s making you feel this way?”
5. “Don’t be silly. You don’t really want to die!”
This dismisses the seriousness of their feelings. Even if someone is ambivalent, their pain is real and should be treated with respect. Reassure them by saying, “Let’s talk about what’s troubling you—I’m here to listen.”
6. “But you have so much to live for!”
While this may seem encouraging, it often invalidates their current emotional state. They might already know what they have to live for, but their pain overshadows it. Instead, say, “I’m sorry you feel this way—let’s work through it together.”
7. “Things can only get better!”
Optimism can feel hollow to someone who is in the depths of despair. They might not believe things will improve, and this statement could make them feel misunderstood. Instead, acknowledge their struggle: “I know it feels overwhelming right now, but I want to help.”
8. “Other people have far worse problems than you, and they deal with them!”
Comparing their pain to others’ struggles minimizes their experience and can make them feel ashamed. Everyone processes difficulties differently. Instead, say, “Your feelings are valid, and I want to help you through this.”
9. “You’re just not prepared to face your problems.”
This statement places blame on the individual, which can deepen their hopelessness. It’s crucial to avoid assigning guilt and instead offer support. You can say, “I know things are tough, but we’ll work through them together.”
10. “You’ll go to hell if you do it!”
Using fear or religious guilt to prevent someone from suicide is harmful and unproductive. This approach can increase feelings of shame or push them further away. A more supportive statement would be, “I care about you, and I want to help you find a way to feel better.”
The Importance of Compassionate Listening
When someone is in a crisis, it’s essential to put your own feelings aside. You might feel hurt, betrayed, or even angry, but this is the time to focus on their needs, not your emotions. A compassionate and nonjudgmental approach is critical to guiding them through their pain.
Instead of offering judgment, provide reassurance. Let them know they are not alone and that help is available. Say things like, “I’m here for you, and we can get through this together.” Actively listening without interrupting or dismissing their concerns can be life-changing for someone who feels hopeless.
If their situation feels beyond your ability to handle, encourage them to seek professional help or contact a crisis line. Remember, your goal is not to solve their problems but to support them until they feel ready to take the next steps toward recovery.
Suicide Support Contacts For Australia
Lifeline 13 11 14 24 hours a day
Beyond Blue – Support
Suicide Call Back 1300 659 467
Sane Australia – 1800 197 263
Kids Help – 1800 55 1800
Emergency 000 24 hours a day
State Crisis Numbers
NSW – 1800 011 511– Mental Health Line
VIC – 1300 651 251 – Suicide Help Line
QLD – 13 43 25 84 – 13 HEALTH
TAS – 1800 332 388 – Mental Health Services Helpline
SA – 13 14 65 – Mental Health Assessment and Crisis Intervention Service
WA – 1800 676 822 – Mental Health Emergency Response Line
NT – 08 8999 4988 – Top End Mental Health Service
ACT – 1800 629 354 – Mental Health Triage Service
In most cases time, understanding, care and professional help will allow a depressed person contemplating suicide to overcome their issues. This will hopefully ensure that they do not become a morbid statistic.
Read from our Guest Bloggers articles. Authors submit original articles on sexual lifestyle, health, and wellness to rick.xsales@gmail.com for posting.
Leave a Reply