Yes it's true that people just have bad days and it's nothing more than that. That's true for some, but for others the bad days are often and may be unbearable; so much so that a person may do something they wouldn't normally do, like self-harm. It's important to be able to recognize the general signs incase a loved one starts showing any. Noticing the signs may save someones life.
The Signs:
- Increased alcohol or drug use
- Talking about wanting to die/suicide
- Anger
- Changes in sleep
- Feeling hopeless, desperate, or trapped
- Withdrawal
- Anxiety
- Giving possessions away/putting affairs in order
Knowing the signs is the first step. The next step is being able to have a conversation about noticing the signs and getting them help. This step may be scary but the best way to find out if someone is suicidal is to ask. Sometimes those who have suicidal thoughts don't really want to die, they just the pain to stop. Personally I think that before helping someone with depression you have to make yourself see their side because you may not completely understand but that doesn't mean their pain isn't real.
The Signs:
- Increased alcohol or drug use
- Talking about wanting to die/suicide
- Anger
- Changes in sleep
- Feeling hopeless, desperate, or trapped
- Withdrawal
- Anxiety
- Giving possessions away/putting affairs in order
Knowing the signs is the first step. The next step is being able to have a conversation about noticing the signs and getting them help. This step may be scary but the best way to find out if someone is suicidal is to ask. Sometimes those who have suicidal thoughts don't really want to die, they just the pain to stop. Personally I think that before helping someone with depression you have to make yourself see their side because you may not completely understand but that doesn't mean their pain isn't real.
Here is a video I found that sums up how depression feels, for me anyway.
What to say:
What NOT to say/do:
Resources
There are many resources to help with any questions you may have or just listen if you are having suicidal thoughts and need to talk to someone.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline - 24/7 assistance
1-800-273-TALK (8255)
National Hopeline Network - 24/7 crisis support
1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)
The Trevor Project - 24/7 crisis support
1-866-488-7386
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline - 24/7 assistance
1-800-273-TALK (8255)
National Hopeline Network - 24/7 crisis support
1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)
The Trevor Project - 24/7 crisis support
1-866-488-7386