Suicide has been deemed as one of the top 20 leading causes of death globally for all ages which is responsible for approximately 1 million of the world’s population dying each year. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), suicide ranks as the number three leading cause of death among ages 15-44, and second leading cause of death for ages 10-24 worldwide. These alarming statistics continue to increase with each passing year and will continue to rise without the persistent understanding as to why people commit suicide, and what leads them to have suicidal thoughts in the first place.

Suicide ideation is the medical terminology to describe the thoughts of and the wish to commit suicide. Before someone takes their own life, they will typically brood over their pain and begin to plan in their mind how they will do it. A person who is feeling hopeless, out of control, or believes they have no real purpose in life can start having suicidal thoughts. Mental or physical health conditions, tumultuous relationships, bullying, trauma, substance abuse, sexual abuse, financial difficulties, or work issues are common producers of suicide ideation.

With any crisis going on, the most prevalent reaction is to run from the problems instead of facing them head on. Suicide is the only solution that some people come up with to fix their problems. Statistics show that around 1 out of 50 suicidal attempts are successful and that is one too many to occur in a world that has more medical and mental health information than ever before. The problem is that someone who experiences suicidal ideation may not disclose their symptoms before they carry out the act of killing themselves.

• Exhibiting mood swings that are high one day or low another.
• Becoming preoccupied with death, dying, or violent acts.
• Changing normal routines that include eating and sleeping patterns.
• Abusing drugs and alcohol.
• Performing risky behaviors such as unprotected sex or reckless driving.
• Developing sudden personality changes such as being overly anxious or agitated
• Withdrawing or isolating from loved ones and friends.
• Talking about their own suicide.
• Purchasing the things needed for death including a gun or pills.
• Giving away belongings or writing a will to prepare.
• Bidding farewell to others as if they will no longer be around.

If you see a loved one displaying these signs of suicidal ideation, you should get them the help they need as soon as possible. Symptoms vary from person to person and some may not give any clues at all, but these impulsive acts can be fatal so keep your eyes open.

If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention hotline at: 1-800-273-8255

National Suicide Prevention Hotline (24 hour a day)

1-800-273-TALK (8255)

Chat online

Crisis Text Line (24 hours a day)

Text 741-741 from anywhere in the USA, anytime, about any type of crisis