Suicidal ideas are tough to cope with and comprehend. They might be transient, but they can also be intense cravings and dreams that promise a respite from what appears to be intolerable suffering. Suicidal thoughts may result from drugs or alcohol addiction Howell, violence, trauma, physical illnesses, or mental health disorder.
You should treat suicidal thoughts seriously, even if you don’t think you will act on them. The sooner you address them, the better. Here are tips to overcome and manage suicidal thoughts;
1. Remove yourself from danger
Suicide thoughts might hit you most when you are in a potentially risky environment or setting (waiting for a sky train, standing on a balcony, driving, near weapons, guns, or other potentially harmful objects).
If this is the case, seek a change of location or circumstance as soon as possible to avoid acting on suicidal ideas.
You can also request a trusted family member or friend to store potentially dangerous tools (e.g., firearms, ropes) so you don’t have to go close to them, or keep any additional prescriptions until you need them.
2. Do something you enjoy
When you are sad, engage in activities you love to make you feel better. Consider what you used to like doing when you were not as sad or suicidal. Do these activities, even if you aren’t enjoying them right now. Even if it is just for a short period, taking a break from suicidal thoughts might be beneficial.
3. Think of your reasons for living
Most individuals who have suicidal thoughts want to end their suffering, but they do not necessarily want to die. When you are down, it is easy to focus on your life’s bad and disturbing aspects, including believing that suicide is the only alternative.
Begin to think about your reasons for living. Many individuals, for example, have loved ones, pets they adore, religion, dreams, aspirations, or duties to others in their lives that provide them with reasons to live and keep them from acting on suicidal thoughts. Consider all of the reasons you have for continuing to live. Make a list of them. When you are feeling down, think of them.
4. Identify high-risk circumstances or triggers and avoid them
If you have suicidal thoughts, think about the events or factors that contribute to your despair and suicidal ideation emotions. Make an effort to stay away from those circumstances. Going to a pub and drinking with friends, for example, may exacerbate depression. If this is a trigger for you, avoid going to a bar or being friends with people who drink.
5. Speak with a trustworthy family member, friend, or professional
If you have suicidal thoughts, it is critical to talk to someone you can trust about how you are feeling. Talking about how you are feeling might sometimes be beneficial. You must be honest about all of your feelings. It is critical to notify someone about your suicide plan if you have one. People frequently express relief after having communicated their feelings with someone. Talking to someone might make you feel less alone.
When you are suicidal, it may seem difficult to escape those emotions, and once they have gone, it may seem impossible to prevent suicide feelings from recurring in the future. However, it is possible to avoid and manage suicidal thoughts with help from professionals.
Contact ReYou to book an appointment to get treatment to help you overcome suicidal thoughts.
