Since my early twenties, I have struggled with mental health, and in my twenties, I also struggled with suicidal thoughts. So although each person is unique, speaking from a personal standpoint I can paint out some broad themes.
The way I clawed my way out - was to achieve something of an equilibrium where my emotions were controlled and cognitive errors such as mistaken views about myself were if not destroyed - locked away by reason.
I remember a gift bought for me by a close relative. It was a complete collection of Sherlock Holmes stories and something within the character resonated deeply. Since Holmes himself can be described as a melancholy character especially as he puts it: '...my mind rebels with stagnation'.
But Holmes also showed me the power of the mind, and to find satisfaction when it is given work.
I found music, work, and writing to be a balm to my own troubled mind. Despite the suicidal tendencies, these died down until now in my thirties I really don't think of suicide. The depression is there, but I know my mind now and know what it needs to ease these times.
I'm not entirely sure any of this is useful but hopefully, through my narrative, you may find some inspiration to help those close to you.
Judgment won't work, as when I was flirting with suicide I was constantly looking out for what I could interpret as a reason to cease living. Words of judgment in that frame of mind sounded like my relatives would be better off without me - this wasn't their intent but my mind gladly twisted their frustration into meaning that my life wasn't worth living.
Patience and time can seem like an eon when someone close to you is going through dark days.
For the family and friends
1. Patience, a non-judgemental ear, and a willingness to live with the problem can be of import.
2. Suggesting interventions can also help whilst respecting the person.
3. Don't rush to problem solve, the mental issue at hand is of processing not problem-solving.
4. Do a lot of research, seek help from qualified persons to educate yourself in how to be a better communicator and listener.
These are just some ideas
For the individual, (from my own personal repertoire):
Spend time in activities that you enjoy
Listen to that which you enjoy
Seek refuge in great literature
Spend time dwelling on the things which make life engaging
Perform the following steps without judging yourself or thinking there are better ways to spend the time - is there any better way ot spend time than in saving yourself figuratively and literally?
For the individual don't be afraid to ask for help.
Here is a list of international suicide lines: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines
The least we can do for a person is letting them know that we are here, no matter what. Doing some small gestures that show that we care can make a difference. The worst mistakes we can do is telling a suicidal person that we know what if feels like to feel that way and trying to force them to see the beauty of life when all they see at that moment is darkness. I know it's extremely hard to see a close person or a relative going through depression or being suicidal and my heart goes to anyone who might be going through something like that.
It would be difficult identifying real ways to reduce suicidal thoughts since different individuals have different reasons for wanting to commit suicide.
Since my early twenties, I have struggled with mental health, and in my twenties, I also struggled with suicidal thoughts. So although each person is unique, speaking from a personal standpoint I can paint out some broad themes.
The way I clawed my way out - was to achieve something of an equilibrium where my emotions were controlled and cognitive errors such as mistaken views about myself were if not destroyed - locked away by reason.
I remember a gift bought for me by a close relative. It was a complete collection of Sherlock Holmes stories and something within the character resonated deeply. Since Holmes himself can be described as a melancholy character especially as he puts it: '...my mind rebels with stagnation'.
But Holmes also showed me the power of the mind, and to find satisfaction when it is given work.
I found music, work, and writing to be a balm to my own troubled mind. Despite the suicidal tendencies, these died down until now in my thirties I really don't think of suicide. The depression is there, but I know my mind now and know what it needs to ease these times.
I'm not entirely sure any of this is useful but hopefully, through my narrative, you may find some inspiration to help those close to you.
Judgment won't work, as when I was flirting with suicide I was constantly looking out for what I could interpret as a reason to cease living. Words of judgment in that frame of mind sounded like my relatives would be better off without me - this wasn't their intent but my mind gladly twisted their frustration into meaning that my life wasn't worth living.
Patience and time can seem like an eon when someone close to you is going through dark days.
For the family and friends
1. Patience, a non-judgemental ear, and a willingness to live with the problem can be of import.
2. Suggesting interventions can also help whilst respecting the person.
3. Don't rush to problem solve, the mental issue at hand is of processing not problem-solving.
4. Do a lot of research, seek help from qualified persons to educate yourself in how to be a better communicator and listener.
These are just some ideas
For the individual, (from my own personal repertoire):
Spend time in activities that you enjoy
Listen to that which you enjoy
Seek refuge in great literature
Spend time dwelling on the things which make life engaging
Perform the following steps without judging yourself or thinking there are better ways to spend the time - is there any better way ot spend time than in saving yourself figuratively and literally?
For the individual don't be afraid to ask for help.
Here is a list of international suicide lines: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines
The least we can do for a person is letting them know that we are here, no matter what. Doing some small gestures that show that we care can make a difference. The worst mistakes we can do is telling a suicidal person that we know what if feels like to feel that way and trying to force them to see the beauty of life when all they see at that moment is darkness. I know it's extremely hard to see a close person or a relative going through depression or being suicidal and my heart goes to anyone who might be going through something like that.
Help the person deal with self-hatred and see their true worth. Because suicide is inward anger.
Getting professional help is the best way
When people are reaching out, give them attention, listen to them and, assure them no matter what you are there for them.
You cannot save every struggling person but you can always help one.
It would be difficult identifying real ways to reduce suicidal thoughts since different individuals have different reasons for wanting to commit suicide.