How to cope with suicidal thoughts

IF you have had passing thoughts of suicide but did not immediately think of harming yourself, it is still important to get help.

This is a piece of advice from a counselling psychologist, Claudette Jordan, the founder of Durban-based Solution for Life as we observe Suicide Prevention Month in September.

Jordan says it is imperative to reach out to a trusted friend or loved one or contact a spiritual leader. “As challenging as it may be to talk about suicidal feelings, establishing a support system helps you to feel connected and that you are not alone. Suicidal thinking does not just get better with time, so it is important to get professional assistance. Make an appointment with your doctor or see a psychologist. Getting the appropriate guidance and support for the underlying issues will help,” she advises.

Also read: #Keready Shines a Light on Suicide Awareness Day

The psychologist explains that therapy can help someone having suicidal thoughts to feel understood in a safe and non-judgemental space, regain perspective and equip them with the tools to manage their emotions and challenges.

Claudette, who works with adolescents, adults, couples and families, describes suicidal thoughts as suicidal ideation and refers to it as any thought or idea about death and ending one’s life, whether it be a passing thought or a recurrent one. “Thoughts may range from fleeting wishes to be dead to active thoughts and actual plans around how one might kill oneself. Suicidal intent may be accompanied by specific steps to prepare for suicide, such as obtaining the means to die, getting affairs in order, and saying goodbye to loved ones. People can move back and forth between suicidal ideation and intent,” she says.

Also read: Local organisation offers suicide support group, open to all

When asked what causes suicidal thoughts, Claudette said it mainly results from intense overwhelm from challenges that a person may be facing. “The person may feel completely hopeless, that they cannot cope and that there is no way to solve their difficulties or to end their pain and suffering. There may be additional feelings of worthlessness, agitation or loneliness or an underlying mental health condition such as major depressive disorder or other mood disorders, trauma, grief, substance abuse, etc,” the psychologist added.

If a person is experiencing active suicidal thoughts, Claudette advises a victim to phone a suicide hotline or a local emergency number or to go to a hospital emergency/trauma unit or ask a loved one to take you.

She says, “Make a plan for your life and reasons to live. Write down the names of the people who care about you. Write down things you enjoy. These can be helpful reminders when you are feeling low. Journalling about your thoughts and feelings can also be an immediate way to express them so they do not build up internally. Stay away from risky activities and substances that may further impair your judgement or increase impulsivity. Schedule daily activities that are enjoyable and relaxing for you, and try to stay connected socially or consider joining a support group.”

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