Is your friend suicidal? Here are telling signs
Ruby de Vera
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Last updated 04:33pm (Mla time) 08/04/2008
MANILA, Philippines—Did you know:
13.4 percent of young adults have thought of committing suicide
25 percent have attempted to commit suicide
The average age of first suicide attempt is 16
9.6 percent felt really hopeless about the future and 9.9 percent felt depressed about life in general.
*From the 2002 Young Adult Fertility and Sexuality Study (YAFS) 3.
What causes depression
While depression can be genetic, it can also be triggered by one or several external and environment factors such as separation or death in the family, difficult relationships, moving to a different place, and any unwelcome change in life.
How to spot it
According to Zsa Zsa Briones, psychologist for PsychConsult Inc., suicidal tendency is only one of the symptoms of clinical depression. It also includes behavioral changes such as change in routine, extreme deviation from the usual sleeping and eating habits, and withdrawal from social contacts and interaction.
As soon as someone verbalizes thoughts about taking their own life, take it seriously. They may or may not be just seeking attention, but even joking about might be a silent cry for help of people who might be falling into the black hole of depression.
They become irritable and would leave instructions to their family and friends what to do with their belongings in case they’re “gone.” Sometimes they would even detail the method and paraphernalia they will use.
What to do
If someone you know suddenly exhibits the symptoms mentioned above, Briones suggests that in the case of parents, they should make time to talk to their children. Being sensitive to them makes a big difference in making a turnaround in their situation. These people are constantly looking for that light at the end of the tunnel, because they feel that their options have narrowed.
If it’s a friend, don’t leave him or her on their own. If possible, take turns sleeping with him so he’s never alone. They need your constant company and support so they won’t feel so hopeless.
If you yourself feel that your sad spell is getting longer and more serious, seek help. Reach out to people. If your friends and parents are not available, go to an adult you trust. It can be a close relative, or it can also be your teacher, coach, or parish priest.
Mental health awareness
In the country, seeking professional help on psychological problems still carries with it a stigma. Mental problems might not be acknowledged as physical diseases, but they are as important. To get to a mental health professional, people either ask for referrals from their family doctors or friends.
A strong support group is important for people who are susceptible to depression. Families and friends play a major role in getting us out of the blues. It’s okay to reach out and talk to people. It’s okay that we can’t please everybody, and there would always be someone whose world will crumble when we’re gone.
PsychConsult. Inc. is at Unit 227 Regalia Park Towers, P. Tuazon Ave., Cubao. You may call them at 421-2469 or 357-6427.
Credits are also given to Christine Gervacio of the Foundation for Adolescent Development (http://teenfad.ph) and Jerome Daclison of Philippine Business for Social Progress (http://pbsp.org.ph).
No Comments, Comment or Ping
Reply to “Is your friend suicidal? Here are telling signs”