Dial 988, the Suicide Hotline
Suicide is one of four top causes of death in the USA under age forty-four. It is the second leading cause for both ages ten to fourteen, ages twenty-five through thirty-four and ages seventy-five to eighty-four.
48,183 Americans died by suicide in 2021 and there were 1.70 million suicide attempts. Men died by suicide 3.90 times more than women.
On average there are 132 suicides per day.
Often the earliest sign of suicide thread is the man (or woman) begins to experience passive ideations of suicide.
What is Passive Suicidal Ideation?
This involves thoughts and feelings about wanting to die without actual planning. They are nonspecific.
What is Active Suicidal Ideation?
That is when the thoughts become more specific such as making plans toward suicide.
What are the causes of Passive Suicidal Ideation?
The causes are chronic anxiety, depression, and mental health impairment.
What are the most common symptoms of Suicide?
- Feeling Hopeless or trapped
- Increased withdrawal or isolation
- Decreased ability to feel pleasure.
- Intense shame, guilt, or vengefulness
- Risky behavior
- Increased anxiety or agitation
- Drug or alcohol habits
- Preoccupation with death or violence
The symptoms of Suicidal Ideation have one notable characteristic. Self-hatred or disgust is reported by $60% of “active ideators” versus 25% of “passive ideators”.
Gentle and compassionate self-care should be taken in the case of Suicidal Ideation.
Seeking mental health is strongly advised no matter how minor the symptoms because minor symptoms usually progress into major symptoms.
How are Suicidal Ideations Treated?
Besides medications, there are several types of behavioral therapies utilized; Dialectical, Integrated Cognitive, Attachment Based, Multisystemic and Outreach and Support Groups.
Are there any alternative treatments?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is a promising option as it strengthens and resets the cortical control pathway between the pre-frontal cortex and the limbic system where deep-seated emotions are highly active.
If you know of someone who is at risk of suicide, talk to them in private and listen to their story letting them know you care about them. Ask if they are considering suicide and encourage them to seek treatment by talking to their doctor or therapist. Avoid debating the value of life, minimizing their problems, or giving advice.
Help them to call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
You need to take them seriously if they indicate an interest in suicide. You should stay with them; help remove any lethal means and call 988 or text TALK to 741741 to text with a trained counselor. Escort them to mental health services or an emergency room.
I have dealt with Passive Suicidal Ideation and self-disgust which has been due to thirty years of trauma from narcissistic abuse and trauma throughout my school years.
Today is the first day of Mental Health Awareness Week. If you need help with any suicidal thoughts, contact the crisis line at 988 and a professional will be available to help you.
God is grieved when you ponder such dangerous thoughts. He wants to help you. In addition to calling the crisis line, you can always call upon Him.
When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:17-18
