But this alone isn’t enough. “There must be services and support out there, readily available and tailored to people’s needs,” he adds. “During this pandemic, there have been many instances for waiting lists for longer than 12-months for children and adolescents getting the support they require.”
We can’t predict who will die by suicide – partly because, in statistical terms, it’s still a rare event, says Prof O’Connor. But we can be alert to behaviours.
Dr Earim Chaudy, medical director of men’s health platform Manual suggests being aware of the following signs in someone suffering from depression, or other mental health conditions, that suggest they could be vulnerable.
Withdrawal is a strong indicator that someone could be depressed. People suffering from depression can lose interest in things that once excited them, and avoid friends and family, choosing to be alone. You might find it more difficult to get hold of them as they could be avoiding texts, phone calls, social occasions. If you notice a friend, family member or work colleague becoming withdrawn, offer your support. Ask them if they want to talk, or even send a text or phone call to let them know that you are there for them.
Someone suffering from depression may not be acting like themselves. This can be through their actions or behaviours, such as cancelling plans, or having little interest in doing things they used to enjoy.
Their speech and communication may also change – you might notice they are speaking quicker or more slowly than usual, finding it difficult to focus on everyday tasks. They might also become moody, or more easily irritated. Make sure to take notice of their personality changes, and offer a support system if you think they’re struggling.
Sometimes people with depression can become reckless because they might no longer value their life. This can include reckless driving, abusing drugs or alcohol, engaging in unsafe sex, and not eating a proper diet.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to raise your concerns with the person as they might be in need of support. If you think their life could be in serious danger, make sure to get emergency help by calling 999.
If you notice someone suffering from insomnia, this could be a sign of depression. Those who struggle to sleep can sometimes have problems switching off, staying up for hours and then feeling fatigued the next day.
On the other hand, the person might be oversleeping, they might stay in bed throughout the day and not leave.If you notice these kinds of changes, ask them if there’s any reason this might be happening and offer support – you can suggest they visit their GP to seek professional help.
Many people who think about suicide will sometimes give a warning sign before they do so. This could be in the form of a joke, or even a threat. While not everyone who talks about suicide will follow through with it, it’s important to question it. Every threat of suicide must be taken seriously.
If you notice threats from a friend or family member regarding suicide, make sure you question them, even if you think they are joking.
