Suicide is a tragic reality that affects many people around the world. Talking about suicide is crucial for prevention, as it opens the door to understanding, support, and timely intervention. It’s important to recognize that suicide is not a solution but a consequence of extreme suffering that can be alleviated with proper help.

Suicide is one of the main public health concerns. In 2020, more than 47,500 people died by suicide in the United States, and overall, it is the tenth leading cause of death in the country. While suicide is complex and tragic, it is often preventable. Knowing the warning signs and how to get help can save lives.

Understanding the Concepts

• Thoughts of death: These involve thinking that it would be better to be dead or wishing not to live, without having a specific plan or intention to end one’s life. Such thoughts may be signs of deep despair and, although they don’t always lead to a suicide attempt, they should be addressed.
• Suicidal ideation: These are more specific and active thoughts about ending one’s life. They can vary in intensity and frequency and, while they don’t necessarily mean that a person intends to act on them, they must always be taken seriously.
• Suicide planning: Suicide planning goes a step further, and involves devising a concrete, feasible plan to end one’s life, including details about how and when it would be done. It is a high-risk sign and requires immediate intervention.
• Self-harm: Self-harm means intentionally causing physical harm to oneself — including behaviors such as cutting, hitting, or burning — without intending to cause death. Although self-harm behaviors may not indicate a desire to commit suicide, they can be a sign of deep emotional pain and require attention and support.

Why Is It Important to Talk About Suicide?

Talking about suicide reduces stigma and allows people to express their feelings in a safe environment. This can lead to early identification of those at risk and provide them with the support they need. Additionally, educating the community about warning signs and how to help can save lives.

We know that the reasons a person may consider or make this decision are varied and complex. Still, it’s important to remember that we can all help prevent it.

If a family member, friend, or someone you know opens up to you about their feelings or suicidal thoughts:

• Listen without judgment: When someone is suffering, what they need most is to be heard. Stay calm, listen attentively, and validate their emotions without offering unsolicited advice.
• Show empathy and concern: Help the person feel safe. Treat them with respect, and preserve their privacy and dignity.
• Respect their pace: Let them share their feelings at their own pace, without interrogating or judging. As long as they are speaking and you are listening, they are not acting on their suicidal thoughts.

It’s important to note that talking about suicide does NOT cause suicidal behavior or self-harm.

What Are the Warning Signs of Suicide?

Immediate warning signs that someone may be at risk include:

• Talking about wanting to die.
• Expressing feelings of emptiness, hopelessness, or having no reason to live.
• Saying they feel trapped or that there’s no solution.
• Describing unbearable physical or emotional pain.
• Claiming to be a burden to others.
• Withdrawing from friends and loved ones.
• Giving away prized possessions.
• Saying goodbye to friends and family.
• Organizing their affairs (e.g. writing a will).
• Engaging in risky behaviors that could lead to death, such as reckless driving.
• Frequently talking or thinking about death.

Other serious warning signs may include:

• Sudden, extreme mood swings — rapidly shifting from feeling very sad to very calm or happy.
• Making specific plans for suicide, searching for methods online, stockpiling pills, or acquiring a weapon.
• Expressing intense guilt or shame.
• Increased use of alcohol or drugs.
• Appearing anxious or agitated.
• Changes in eating or sleeping habits.
• Exhibiting anger or talking about seeking revenge.

Suicide is not a typical response to stress. Suicidal thoughts or actions are signs of extreme distress and should not be ignored. If you or someone you know shows these signs, seek help immediately.

If you want to learn more about this issue, visit:

• https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/suicide-prevention 
• https://www.paho.org/en/topics/suicide-prevention

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, it’s critical to seek help immediately. Mental health professionals, helplines, and support networks are available to offer assistance and care. Call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This helpline offers free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress and is available 24/7 throughout the United States in Spanish and English. You can also get support via their live chat. If you are concerned about what a friend is posting on social media, contact the platform directly or call 911 in an emergency.

Bibliography: 

National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Prevención del suicidio. NIMH. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/espanol/prevencion-del-suicidio