Substance Abuse and Suicide
There are many risk factors for suicide, including psychiatric disorders, trauma and stressful life events, but substance abuse and addiction are most important in many cases. Although the reasons for the connection are not completely understood, one major idea is the link to mental health. Substance abuse as a risk factor is second only to mood disorders like depression. Substance abuse is often a strategy for self-medicating for mood disorders. Someone with a substance abuse issue is more likely to have a mood disorder and therefore be at risk for suicide.How to Recognize Suicidal Thoughts
When someone is suicidal, it starts with thinking. Suicide is not something that a person does out of nowhere. First she starts thinking about suicide, and then she may or may not make an attempt to end her life. If you are worried about someone, it is important to be able to recognize that she may be thinking about suicide so you can intervene before she makes an attempt. Here are some important signs:- Talking about suicide.
- Talking about being worthless or a burden.
- Feeling hopeless about the future.
- Saying goodbye or giving away personal items.
- Withdrawing from family and friends.
- Getting access to a means for suicide (a gun, pills, etc.)
- Suddenly acting calm.
