Attempted Suicide - Symptoms, causes and treatment

Attempted suicide is a situation in which a person does something that could end his or her own life. This situation can be triggered by various factors, such as depression, the effects of drug abuse, or problems in life.

There are usually signs that someone is about to make a suicide attempt, some of which are looking worried, feeling guilty, or making a will. Attempted suicide is a preventable condition. The role of family and close relatives is very important in this regard.

Causes of Suicide Attempts

The urge to attempt suicide can be triggered by many factors, some of which are:

  • Suffering from mental disorders, such as depression.
  • Experiencing psychological violence, such as bullyingbully).
  • Drug abuse.
  • Suffering from a serious illness.
  • Having mental stress, for example because of divorce, loss of job, status / position, or money.
  • Experiencing sexual violence, including incest.
  • Loss of a close relative or family member.
  • imprisoned.

Apart from the above factors, cyberbullying or bullying in cyberspace also increases the risk of suicide, especially in adolescents.

Symptoms of Attempted Suicide

A person who is about to attempt suicide usually exhibits unusual movements, such as:

  • Make a will.
  • Give away valuables.
  • Say goodbye to friends and family.
  • Storing dangerous pills or firearms.
  • Frequent consumption of alcohol or drugs.
  • Keep away from relatives or family.
  • Appears anxious or restless.
  • There is a change in eating or sleeping habits.
  • Shows drastic mood swings.
  • Dare to do something dangerous, which can even lead to death. For example, driving very fast.

In addition to gestures, someone who wants to attempt suicide also often expresses his feelings. In this case, the feelings expressed can be:

  • Express the pain you feel, whether it's emotional or physical.
  • Talk about guilt or shame.
  • Feeling like a burden to others.
  • Shows anger or talks about revenge.
  • Expresses his feelings of loneliness, despair, and no longer have a reason to live.
  • Expresses a desire to die or commit suicide.
  • Often thinks or talks about death.

Suicide Attempt Prevention

It is important to know the risk factors and signs of attempted suicide that appear in a person. If you find a family member or friend has these signs, prevention can be done are:

  • Listen carefully as well as learn what he is thinking and feeling.
  • Help him in overcoming depression experienced.
  • Don't hesitate to ask her about any suicidal thoughts.
  • Don't hesitate to express your love, both in actions and words.
  • Don't ignore her feelings about something, even if it's trivial or easy to resolve.
  • As much as possible keep away items that can be used for suicide, such as firearms.

If you are concerned that the above methods are still not enough to prevent a suicide attempt, then you can take him to a psychiatrist. Medical methods that a psychiatrist may suggest are:

  • psychotherapy,One of them is cognitive behavioral therapy. This therapy will train patients in dealing with stress that can trigger suicidal ideation.
  • Drug administration. Antipsychotic drugs, such as clozapine, It is often given to schizophrenic patients to reduce the risk of suicidal ideation.