World Suicide Prevention Day: Expert explains how to spot red flags, treatment

Suicide is a global crisis that claims over 720,000 lives every year. Behind this staggering figure are real people who often mask their deep-seated despair with cheerful smiles, fighting silent battles against overwhelming mental pressure. And fear of judgement and social stigma prevents many from seeking the help they desperately need.

In the final year of the triennial campaign, 'Changing the narrative on suicide' by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP), addressing this growing epidemic has never been more urgent.

From academic stress to broken relationships, the triggers span all age groups. How do we recognise the red flags, and whose duty is it to intervene? On World Suicide Prevention Day (September 10), Priya Varghese, a clinical psychologist at Breathe Mind Care, Thiruvalla, shares vital insights into understanding and preventing suicide.

Spotting the warning signs
When someone battles suicidal ideation, they are fundamentally trapped in a state of utter hopelessness. This distress often manifests in subtle behavioural shifts: withdrawing from social circles, losing interest in previously loved hobbies, or displaying persistent sadness.

While some individuals choose not to vocalise their pain out of fear of intrusion, others show clear distress signals that loved ones must never ignore. Recognising these signs is the first crucial step in preventing a tragedy.

The insidious link between depression and suicide
In its initial stages, depression often presents as low self-esteem, pessimism about the future, and general helplessness. However, as the condition worsens, these negative patterns deepen. A person begins to feel that nothing will ever improve. This destructive cycle is fuelled by both neurochemical changes in the brain and challenging life circumstances, such as persistent criticism, lack of emotional support, and the inability to cope with failure. Over time, this emotional fatigue leads to complete social withdrawal, leaving the individual with no desire to attempt new things or engage in daily life.

Severe anxiety and constant worry about one's career, future, or life choices can also spiral into deep depression if left unaddressed. Questions like "What is the point of living?" or "Why should I keep going?" are major red flags that demand immediate attention. Identifying these symptoms early and consulting mental health professionals can be life-saving.

Why cries for help are never just a joke
When someone opens up about suicidal thoughts, well-meaning friends or relatives often dismiss them with superficial advice like, "It is all in your head, just change your mindset." However, resolving severe mental agony is not that simple. Such dismissiveness can be incredibly damaging. Many assume that people talk about suicide merely to seek attention or gain leverage, but this is rarely the case. These thoughts are usually the culmination of chronic distress, emotional isolation, and sometimes, unresolved childhood trauma.

Growing up without parental warmth, experiencing repeated failures in relationships, facing constant bullying or criticism from peers and family, or encountering professional setbacks can severely bruise a person's mental resilience. When life presents consecutive hardships, individuals may feel they lack the strength to rebuild themselves. Thus, any mention of suicide must be taken seriously, and met with empathy and professional intervention rather than skepticism.

Seeking clinical treatment is vital
Overcoming persistent suicidal thoughts requires structured clinical guidance. Evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) are highly effective in helping individuals identify destructive thought patterns and replace them with healthy coping mechanisms. In cases where the distress is acute, a psychiatrist may prescribe medication to correct underlying chemical imbalances. Attempting to deal with such overwhelming pressure alone is incredibly difficult, making timely professional care indispensable.

Shifting from stigma to shared responsibility
It is a dangerous myth that mentioning suicide is merely an "attention-seeking" ploy. Even if an individual with personality disorders or emotional instability uses these threats to cope with the pain of a broken relationship, dismissing it as drama ignores their profound vulnerability. The root of such behaviour often traces back to emotional neglect and trauma. Rather than questioning the motives behind a cry for help, we must focus on the underlying pain that prompted it.

We must foster an environment where people can talk openly about their mental struggles without fear of ridicule or ostracisation. Too often, people only ask "Were they struggling?" after a tragedy has already occurred. Mental well-being directly impacts our relationships, work, and physical health, and it must be prioritised accordingly. Seeking psychiatric or psychological help is not a sign of weakness; it is a courageous act of self-preservation. As a society, our collective responsibility is to listen without judgement, offer unconditional support, and help save lives.