The suicide rate is increasing both in America and worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, one person commits suicide every 40 second. Nearly 47,500 suicides occurred in the United States by itself in 2019.
Suicide has an impact on the entire society. It’s not just a personal issue. Many organizations put their focus on events such as Suicide Awareness Month in order to encourage treatment and prevent suicides.
Mental health experts have identified several factors that increase the risk of suicide. Here are some of the most common mental illnesses that can lead to suicide.
The following are some of the ways to reduce your risk:
Depression symptoms usually become apparent over time. The severity of these affections increases when a person experiences stressful events in their life, such as a job loss, relationship issues, financial problems or other significant losses. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), major depression disorder is the leading cause of disability-related years lost.
Stress or trauma can cause depression. Depression can cause people to feel negative emotions like sadness, frustration and anxiety. They may experience physical symptoms like:
- Headaches and stomachaches
- Back Pain
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Weight Gain or Loss
- Excessive sweating
- Changes in appetite
- Problems concentrating
- Suicidal thoughts
Bipolar disorder
Bipolar patients are at an increased risk of suicide when compared with normal people. The mood swings that accompany this problem are extreme. Feelings of elation, or mania can lead to recklessness and poor judgment. Other symptoms include:
- Irritability
- Anger
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Sleep disturbances
- Deep sadness can last for long periods
Bipolar disorder patients are at higher risk of suicide than the general public. Stressful situations may trigger manic or depression episodes. Bipolar disorder patients are most at risk for suicide during their lowest points. It’s important to consult a doctor during these times.
Anxiety disorders
Anxiety disorders can increase the risk of suicide. The most common anxiety disorders include:
- Social phobia
- Panic attacks
- obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Anxiety disorder
Anxiety disorders may cause someone to worry about the future. Some people may become anxious around certain places, people or things. You may start to avoid them because of the fear they feel if you encounter them.
Substance abuse
Suicide risk is increased by alcoholism and substance abuse disorders. The greater the severity of the problem, the higher the risk.
Suicide is more likely to occur in people with substance abuse disorder because the substances they use alter brain chemistry. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that allow brain cells to communicate. Alcohol consumption can affect the way neurotransmitters are used by the body. The chemical balance is thrown out of balance, resulting in emotional instability.
Alcohol and substances can also impair the ability to think clearly. Someone who abuses alcohol or substances may have difficulty processing information. You may feel anxious, depressed, angry or agitated.
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
The cause of post-traumatic stress disorder is a previous trauma. After a traumatic event, the body releases hormones which trigger a flight or fight reflex. These hormones are active even when no danger is present. This causes the body to remain on high alert, even after the threat is gone.
While PTSD is a common condition, it can also be triggered by similar stimuli. They can also be triggered by loud noises or sudden movements.
The constant state of alertness can cause feelings of anger, rage or shame. It may even lead to suicidal thoughts. According to research, people with PTSD have a 15-fold higher risk of attempting suicide than those who do not suffer from PTSD.
Hope for recovery is there?
When individuals receive the right medical and psychological treatment, they can recover. The early prevention of suicide begins with the provision of emotional and psychological assistance to those identified as being more likely to try suicide. Regular mental therapy can also be important, particularly for severe cases when simply being around people is not enough.
Final Thoughts
Mental conditions can be of many types and increase the risk for suicide attempts. Each of these conditions requires a different approach to address. You should always know that suicide can be prevented, no matter what the cause. You can reduce suicides by ensuring individuals get the help they need.
