Anybody who ever battled depression knows what it means to feel profoundly sad at times. But being suicidal or knowing someone who’s close, that is suicidal is a difficult topic.
Out of experience and having suicidal thoughts myself early age on and while battling depression, I know how hard it was and maybe still is for anybody around me to deal with that thought.
That fear if he or she’ll do something to themselves, because they made that threat so many times before, that maybe, this time, he or she really means it.
It’s something nobody should underestimate. Thoughts alone, threats, comments on social media, as well as suicidal notes as drafts are indications, and should be taken extremely serious. These are not calls for attention, but more so for help.
Ignoring it or cutting people off is the worse you can do to them. Instead, be soft spoken, call them and text them to make sure they are OK.
Getting angry at them, does not help the matter and can push them further into isolation.
Don’t tell them, committing suicide is the most selfish act they could do. Anything negative will do exactly the opposite you don’t want to happen.
Telling them they end up in hell, if they should commit suicide, also wouldn’t stop them if they really wanted to do it.
The best you can do is be patient. Talk with the person about their thoughts and why they feel the way to end it. Talk to them about positive events in their life, tell them they are loved and would be deeply missed. And reassure them you are always going to be there for them and will support them. Extra TLC is needed.
Find out if it’s because of a lost love, recurrent traumatic events that happened, mental disorders or anything else that could trigger the feeling.
Talking helps so much more, however, if it’s a serious issue, like a mental disorder, the best you can do is make an appointment with a therapist and go with your friend.
It’s important to let your friend(s) know, they can always call you, but if you should be unavailable for whatever reason, to call the suicide hotline instead. They have a team of professionals 24/7.
You could also encourage your friend to write the feelings down, whenever the thought of suicide rises if you are unable to be there right away.
It’s important to show them love and compassion. Because the feeling of feeling empty and lonely, will only rise if being rejected by loved ones, because they don’t know how to handle the thought of suicide.
I’m so thankful to have friends and family members, who never gave up on me and helped me go through some rough patches in life.
