Health
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What are the Different Strategies for Suicide Prevention?

Patti Kate
Patti Kate

There are many strategies for suicide prevention, including a telephone suicide hotline that individuals may call for anonymous support. Suicide awareness should include educating the public to recognize symptoms in friends and family members who may require intervention. Another crucial strategy for suicide prevention is to seek professional counseling for depression before it becomes overwhelming.

People of all ages, cultures, and races commit suicide. Recognition and intervention is the key to preventing such deaths. Recognizing suicide warning signs may be difficult in some cases, so close observation and careful attention to changes in behavior can help.

Mental health counseling is a good strategy for suicide prevention.
Mental health counseling is a good strategy for suicide prevention.

Uncharacteristic behavior patterns for an individual can be one of the signs of suicidal thoughts. For instance, if an individual suddenly withdraws from favorite activities or social events, or loses interest in his friends, this could indicate a potential problem. Violent outbursts and frustration over minor details may also be a sign.

Depression may manifest in other ways as well, such as persistent loss of appetite, inattention to personal hygiene, or difficulty sleeping. If the individual is constantly depressed or sad and talks of feelings of despair and hopelessness, he might be contemplating suicide. This is why listening to friends and family and recognizing these changes is the first step in suicide prevention.

Individuals who are envisioning or threatening suicide are often put on suicide watch.
Individuals who are envisioning or threatening suicide are often put on suicide watch.

Mental health counseling and psychotherapy are good strategies for suicide prevention among all ages. Mental health centers and independent counselors are trained to assist those with overwhelming depression and suicidal tendencies or thoughts. When such individuals become consumed with the belief that there is no solution to their problems, suicide prevention counseling can offer guidance and alternatives that may help them cope.

e

Telephone suicide hotlines are available for individuals who are in distress.
Telephone suicide hotlines are available for individuals who are in distress.

For those who have a close association with a person who is at risk for suicide, it may not be easy to remain objective or even recognize the person needs help. Therefore, an essential strategy for suicide prevention is remaining in control. This means offering support in a rational and calm manner, without being judgmental. Many experts believe that choosing to criticize or dismiss the person's feelings may alienate a relationship and cause further dismay for the individual.

Friends and family may hold an intervention for a loved one they are concerned about.
Friends and family may hold an intervention for a loved one they are concerned about.

In addition to offering hope, reassurance, and personal support, there are many suicide prevention strategies that may be found by searching online. Crisis hotlines, counseling centers, and mental health facilities can all be found through online research. There are also emergency hotlines and centers for situations that require immediate intervention.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Mental health counseling is a good strategy for suicide prevention.
      By: Alexander Raths
      Mental health counseling is a good strategy for suicide prevention.
    • Individuals who are envisioning or threatening suicide are often put on suicide watch.
      By: WavebreakmediaMicro
      Individuals who are envisioning or threatening suicide are often put on suicide watch.
    • Telephone suicide hotlines are available for individuals who are in distress.
      By: Aleksndr Login
      Telephone suicide hotlines are available for individuals who are in distress.
    • Friends and family may hold an intervention for a loved one they are concerned about.
      By: gstockstudio
      Friends and family may hold an intervention for a loved one they are concerned about.
    • Suicide prevention programs may be religiously based.
      By: Magdalena Kucova
      Suicide prevention programs may be religiously based.
    • Parents should be alert to the signs of suicide in teens.
      By: BlueSkyImages
      Parents should be alert to the signs of suicide in teens.