Suicide & Suicidal Thoughts

by Anne Ueberbach
Assistant Director/Counsellor

What are Suicidal Thoughts

Suicidal thoughts are intrusive and distressing ideations that involve contemplating, planning, or even desiring one's own death. These thoughts can range from fleeting moments of hopelessness to persistent feelings of worthlessness and despair. Individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts may feel overwhelmed by emotional pain, isolation, or a sense of being trapped in their circumstances. These thoughts are often accompanied by a sense of hopelessness, as if there is no way out of their current situation. Suicidal ideation can be a symptom of various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder, among others. It's crucial to recognize the seriousness of suicidal thoughts and seek help from mental health professionals or support networks to address the underlying issues and prevent potential harm.

Warning Signs of Suicide

Recognizing the warning signs of suicide is crucial for early intervention and support. It is important to take any warning signs of suicide seriously and seek help immediately. Warning signs can vary from person to person, but common indicators include:

• Talking about wanting to die or feeling hopeless
   Individuals may express feelings of hopelessness, emptiness, or a desire to end their life. They may vocalize thoughts such as "I wish I were dead" or "Life isn't worth living."

• Increased substance abuse
  Escalating use of alcohol or drugs may indicate an individual's attempt to cope with emotional distress or numb their pain.

• Withdrawal from social activities
  Sudden withdrawal from friends, family, or previously enjoyed activities may signal a loss of interest or pleasure in life.

• Changes in mood or behaviours
  Mood swings, irritability, agitation, or recklessness can be warning signs of underlying mental health struggles.

• Giving away possessions
  Making arrangements or giving away prized possessions without explanation can be a warning sign of suicidal intent.

• Reckless behaviours
  Engaging in out-of-character risky or self-destructive behaviours, such as driving recklessly or participating in dangerous activities, may indicate a lack of concern for one's safety and well-being.

• Saying goodbye or making final arrangements: Expressing farewells or making preparations for their departure, such as writing a will or settling financial affairs, can be significant warning signs.

• Sudden calmness or happiness
  Sometimes, individuals who have made the decision to end their life experience a sense of calm, relief or happiness, as they have resolved their internal conflict.

• Previous suicide attempts: A history of previous suicide attempts is one of the strongest risk factors for future attempts.

Risk Factors of Suicide

Understanding the risk factors associated with suicide is crucial for identifying individuals who may be at heightened risk and providing timely intervention and support. While suicide is complex and multifaceted, there are several common risk factors that increase an individual's likelihood of experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviours. These risk factors include:

• Mental health disorders
  Conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and substance abuse disorders significantly increase the risk of suicide. Untreated or poorly managed mental illness can exacerbate feelings of hopelessness, despair, and isolation.

• Previous suicide attempts
  Individuals who have previously attempted suicide are at a higher risk of future attempts. Previous attempts indicate underlying psychological distress and unresolved issues that may persist without proper intervention.

• Family history of suicide
  A family history of suicide or suicide attempts can increase an individual's susceptibility to suicidal thoughts and behaviours. Genetic factors, environmental influences, and learned behaviours within the family may contribute to this heightened risk.

• Exposure to trauma or abuse
  Traumatic experiences such as physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, neglect, or witnessing violence can significantly impact an individual's mental health and increase their risk of suicide.

• Chronic illness
  Chronic illnesses, debilitating health conditions, and chronic pain can contribute to feelings of despair, hopelessness, and a diminished sense of quality of life, increasing the risk of suicide.

• Social isolation
  Lack of social support, loneliness, and feelings of disconnectedness from others can exacerbate feelings of despair and hopelessness, increasing vulnerability to suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

• Financial or legal problems
  Financial instability, unemployment, debt, legal troubles, or significant life stressors such as divorce or loss of housing can create overwhelming feelings of despair and hopelessness, increasing the risk of suicide.

• Access to lethal means
  Easy access to firearms, medications, or other lethal means increases the likelihood of impulsive suicide attempts, as individuals may act on suicidal thoughts without adequate time for intervention or reflection.

• Stigma surrounding mental illness or seeking help
  Cultural, societal, or personal stigma surrounding mental illness or seeking help for mental health concerns can deter individuals from seeking support, exacerbating feelings of isolation and hopelessness.

• Lack of access to mental health resources
  Limited access to mental health services, inadequate mental health education, and stigma surrounding help-seeking behaviours can impede individuals' ability to access the support and resources they need to address underlying mental health issues and suicidal ideation.

How to Seek Help for Suicide in Singapore

1. Therapy support
   Reach out to a mental health professional, such as our team of psychologists and counsellors, for support and guidance. Don’t wait until your mental health or suicidal thoughts escalate into suicidal urges!

2. Seek Support from Trusted Individuals
   Talk to trusted friends, family members, or colleagues about what you're experiencing and how you're feeling. Opening up to someone you trust can provide emotional support, validation, and a sense of connection during difficult times.

3. Call a Helpline
   The Samaritans of Singapore (SOS) operate a 24-hour hotline (1800-221-4444) where trained volunteers provide confidential emotional support, crisis intervention, and suicide prevention services. You can call this hotline anytime if you're in distress or need someone to talk to.

4. Visit a Hospital Emergency Department
   If you're in immediate danger of harming yourself or someone else, go to the nearest hospital emergency department or call emergency services (999) immediately. Hospitals in Singapore have psychiatric services and mental health professionals who can assess and provide appropriate care for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis.

It's important to remember that seeking help for suicidal thoughts or behaviours is a courageous step towards healing and recovery. You are not alone, and there are people and resources available to support you during difficult times. If you're unsure about where to seek help or need immediate assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to emergency services, hotlines, or mental health professionals for support. Your life is valuable, and there is hope and help available. 

“When you feel like giving up, just remember the reason why you held on for so long.”