Its important to talk about why suicide attempts and ideation occur.
Its important to destigmatize the suffering of those who may be shouldering their pain in silence.
If you are struggling with suicidal ideation, c’mon call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.
Bianca Des Jardins
Thats why its so important to continue the conversation.
Its important to talk about why suicide attempts and ideation occur.
Its important to destigmatize the suffering of those who may be shouldering their pain in silence.
Perceived burdensomeness and depression.
or How could you even think that way?
Instead, do let them know that youre there for them if they need it.
Do tell them that you care and love them.
Do make them feel like they matter and that their recovery matters.
Do suggest helpful and vetted resources if they need them.
Do spend time with them and make time for them.
Note what you most love and cherish about them.
Their pain outweighs their sense of hope or coping resources.
What to do:Be a supportive, listening ear and offer encouragement from a non-judgmental stance.
This is their pain and you have no right to invalidate it.
Do find ways to remind them of how loved they are.
Let them know how important they are to you.
I am so sorry youre feeling so much pain.
I am here for you.
What do you think would help you most today?
A history of trauma or complex trauma.
Early childhood trauma can literally rewire the brain, making it more vulnerable to stress and pain in adulthood.
When one suffers from the symptoms ofPTSD or Complex PTSD, suicidal ideation can enter the picture quite easily.
Knowing this, people should realize that they cannot judge someones suicide attempt as selfish.
Let them know youre there for them no matter what.
Acknowledge any adverse circumstances they may have been through that you may be aware of.
This will help you to give compassion without judgment.
A history of abuse.
This includes not only physical abuse but also emotional and verbal abuse.
Abuse survivors already struggle with deep feelings of shame due to stigmas and stereotypes imposed by our society.
Again, we have no idea what happens behind the closed doors of another persons life.
Someone may be an abuse survivor and you may not even know it.
Addiction can be a silent killer and is another leading cause of suicide.
Learn thesigns of addiction.
Find healthy, sober activities you’re able to do together that place a focus back on self-care.
Remind them that youre here for them and that you support their commitment to treatment and recovery.
