What is it about ?
Suicide and suicide attempts are a frequent problem in our society. More than 9 times out of 10, the person has a history of psychic problems, usually mood disorders or problemssubstance abuse (alcohol, drugs, medications). It is rarely a sudden attack.
Often, suicide is the result of a long process, a long accumulation of risk factors, a lack of protection and the presence of triggers. This shows the importance of recognizing risk groups and risk factors for suicide, and intervening early to prevent progression to suicide.
Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts and suicides are rare in childhood. But their number increases in adolescence. A previous suicide attempt is the main risk factor for a new suicide attempt or suicide: 1 in 3 times, the person has made a previous suicide attempt. Out of 10 teenagers who kill themselves, 6 had already told someone about their suicidal thoughts, mostly a boyfriend their age.
More than 9 times out of 10, suicide is preceded by psychiatric disorders: mood disorders (mainly depression) in at least 1 in 2 people, and a serious problem of substance abuse (addiction) in about 1 person out of 4.
The first cause of (attempted) suicide is a romantic break-up or an argument with a loved one.
How to recognize it?
Most people who think about suicide are moody (depressed), anxious, desperate, confused, and looking for a way out. They are overwhelmed by these feelings and often cannot organize their thoughts to seek solutions. The situation is hopeless in their eyes.
Suicidal behavior in adolescence is often associated with psychosocial issues such as arguing, bereavement, and disappointment. Mood disturbances, substance abuse and antisocial behavior (especially in men) are common.
How can the doctor and family and friends identify a risk of suicide?
The will to kill yourself is not an illness. Suicide risk cannot be diagnosed by physical or technical examination. The key lies in the understanding of personal psychosocial and physical state of the individual who has thoughts of suicide. If you have any doubts, it can be useful to ask the person explicitly if they have a concrete plan and if they have already made any preparations. Some will deny forcefully, others will be relieved to be able to talk about it.
If you notice multiple red flags in a person for a long time, they may indicate that they need help. Signals below can indicate that a person is going through difficult times:
- She changes her behavior;
- She changes her emotions;
- It turns in on itself;
- She says she is not well.
Out of 10 people who commit suicide, 4 to 6 asked for (medical) help in the last month of their life, 2 people asked for help on the day of the suicide. But very few of them warn of their intention to commit suicide.
What can you do ?
Don’t get locked into your feelings of hopelessness, guilt, or shame that lead to thoughts of suicide. Dare to speak to a professional therapist who can help you.
Several organizations are available to talk about suicide issues. You can turn to them for information, but also to talk, to exchange emails or to chat:
- Crisis line of the suicide prevention center: dial 0800 32 123 or go to the centre’s forum via https://www.preventionsuicide.be/
- Tele-reception: dial 107 or go to http://www.tele-accueil.be/
- Child-listening service: dial 103 or go to http://www.103ecoute.be/
Remember that a depression, for example, makes you see everything in black and prevents you from thinking constructively in search of solutions. a processing adapted will allow you after a few weeks to see things from a totally different angle.
If you really can’t discuss your feelings with someone, try writing. What you have written can then be read by someone you trust, possibly your GP.
If you are confused and cannot see a way out, alcohol or drugs is really not a good idea. These substances seem to help you escape, but they only make your gloom, panic, or hopelessness worse. Alcohol and drugs can cause you to lose control and prevent you from judging whether you are making the right decision.
What can the professional do?
He will talk to you about your problems. He will decide with you how the rest will go. He will ask for your permission to involve your family and will also ask you to promise not to attempt suicide during the accompaniment. He will contact a psychological service where you can get help quickly.
A lot of help is possible. There is for example the mental health services (MHS) where you can go regularly. You can also go to an independent psychologist.
Sometimes antidepressants are prescribed.
If you have already made a suicide attempt or if the doctor thinks you will make one very soon, he will suggest hospitalization in a psychiatric ward.
Are you looking for help?
In the event of a medical emergency, call the emergency number 112.
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