4 Indicators of Suicidal Behavior

In 2019, a woman in New York City jumped from the terrace of the 29th floor of her high-rise apartment to her inevitable death. She was identified as former Miss USA Cheslie Kryst. Cheslie was the 2019 pageant winner. She was 30 years old, a lawyer, and a reporter by profession. To the average eye, Cheslie had a picture-perfect life. She had been named the most beautiful woman in America, she was an attorney, she lived in luxury, and had a life that most people can only dream of. Even the police attested that Kryst, “had a life that anyone would be jealous of… It’s so sad.”

Are there things that might have been missed and what are some warning signs to look out for in the people in your life? Most times, suicide leaves clues, so here is a list of things to watch out for.

Anyone could be struggling with suicide.
Identifying the potential of someone contemplating suicide can be particularly difficult. While some individuals may exhibit visible indications of being at risk or openly express their thoughts, others make an effort to conceal their suicidal thoughts and keep their intentions hidden. Recognizing these intentions might not be evident to those without proper training, especially when individuals attempt to keep them concealed. Nonetheless, there exist various external indicators that someone is contemplating suicide, and becoming acquainted with common subtle signs can assist individuals in recognizing if a loved one is at risk.
Sudden changes in behavior such as experiencing fluctuations in mood, like feeling extremely happy one day and completely disheartened the next. Increased reliance on alcohol or drugs or religiosity. Altering regular habits, including patterns of eating or sleeping. Engaging in hazardous or self-harming behaviors, such as drug abuse or reckless driving. Giving away possessions or organizing personal matters without any apparent reason. Undergoing alterations in personality or suffering from intense anxiety or restlessness, especially in conjunction with some of the aforementioned indicators.
Expressing emotions of feeling worthless, hopeless, like a burden, or believing others would be better off without them are commonly seen as signs of suicidal thoughts or behavior. There is evidence pointing towards the notion that feeling like a burden on others can be a powerful indicator of suicidal behavior and therefore, any language conveying such sentiments should be treated with utmost seriousness.
Giving away needed possessions without a clear reason or “saying goodbye” to loved ones are also signs of potential suicidality that should be addressed. Suicide is not a normal stress response. Suicidal thoughts or actions are a sign of extreme distress and should not be ignored… If these warning signs apply to you or someone you know, get help as soon as possible, particularly if the behavior is new or has increased recently.

If your hunches lead you to believe the person is in imminent danger, please do the following.

ASK: “Are you considering taking your own life?” Though it’s not an easy question to ask, research indicates that asking people who are at risk if they are suicidal does not lead to an increase in suicides or suicidal thoughts.

KEEP THEM SAFE: Part of the suicide prevention strategy includes limiting a suicidal person’s access to places or highly deadly objects. Even if it’s not always simple, finding out if the individual who is in danger has a plan and taking away or deactivating the lethal tools can help.

BE THERE: Pay close attention to what the person is saying and understanding. According to research, admitting and discussing suicide may actually lessen rather than raise suicidal thoughts.

HELP THEM CONNECT: Establishing a relationship with a dependable person, such as a friend, relative, spiritual counselor, or mental health expert, can also be beneficial.

STAY CONNECTED: Maintaining communication during a crisis or after being released from medical supervision can be beneficial. Research indicates that when someone follows up with an at-risk individual, the rate of suicide deaths decreases.