September features World Suicide Prevention Day. Suicide statistics in Oregon and across the U.S. are staggering. In 2010, more people died by suicide than by motor vehicle accidents, according to a 2013 CDC report. Fear that a friend or loved one may commit suicide can be pervasive and unsettling to a person’s psyche.
It may be impossible to save a person’s life, but taking certain precautions may encourage them to seek the treatment they need. Sunstone Recovery offers treatment for depression that can address suicidal ideations.
Previous Suicide Attempts and Self-Harm
A previous suicide attempt is a significant indicator that a person may try to commit suicide again. While a suicide attempt involves attempting to end one’s own life, self-injury is a way that some people cope with pain. Self-inflicted scratching, cutting, burning, strangulation, drug abuse, or any other self-harming behavior are common for people trying to ease their mental suffering.
Not everyone who engages in self-harm intends to commit suicide. Self-harm is often an indication of depression or some other psychological issue that can lead to suicide. The difference between self-injury and suicide is that people use self-injury to cope, while people use suicide to end their life.
If you are concerned about a loved one, encourage them to seek mental health treatment. Treatment doesn’t just take place on World Suicide Prevention Day; it can happen any time. Please remember to check in on them when you can. Suicide prevention can start with a phone call.
Severe Hopelessness
Most people experience feelings of hopelessness at some points during their lives, but when despair becomes pervasive and all-encompassing, this can put people at risk of suicidal behavior. If you feel like you will never be able to cope with an event, situation, or state of mind, the depression counseling we at Sunstone Recovery can help people cope with depression in sustainable, life-affirming ways. A person with absolutely no hope for the future may look at suicide as a way out.
If you have suffered from hopelessness, there is no reason to suffer alone. A Bend, OR therapist at Sunstone Recovery may be able to help prevent suicide.
A Dangerous Increase in Drug or Alcohol Use
We know that people suffering from substance use disorder have higher rates of suicide than the general population. People who are addicted to dangerous chemicals often have other risk factors that put people at risk of suicide, including depression, hopelessness, and impulsivity.
Chemically dependent people are more likely to have social, financial, and self-esteem issues. If someone you know is living a life dominated by alcohol and drugs, this puts them at a higher risk of suicide. Group addiction therapy and depression treatment can help people address their addiction and its consequences.
Social Withdrawal
During quarantine, most people have become socially withdrawn, but if someone stops communicating with everyone they know, they could be suffering in silence. A person who begins avoiding family and friends may be suffering from suicidal thoughts. Losing interest in social activities that used to spark joy may be an indication that someone is suffering from depression.
There is a big difference between needing some alone time and withdrawing completely. It is always good to check on someone who seems like they might be showing the warning signs of suicide.
Personality and Behavior Changes
Certain symptoms like weight gain, loss of motivation, and pervasive apathy can indicate potential suicide risk. Depression counseling can make a tremendous difference for a person with suicidal ideations. When in doubt, check in periodically with people if you notice significant behavior changes.
It is not always possible to prevent suicide, but showing someone that their existence matters can make a difference.
Suicide Counseling Near Bend, OR
If you or a loved one displays warning signs of suicide, please reach out to Sunstone Recovery, the best addiction treatment center in Bend, OR. We also offer telehealth counseling for people who are self-isolating. Our dedicated staff has experience with all types of addiction and mental health issues, and we look forward to helping you move on to better things.
Please contact us today at 855.833.9199. Suicide prevention in Oregon can begin at Sunstone Recovery whether it is World Suicide Prevention Day or not.
