Suicide refers to the act of ending one’s life. It is a result of a behaviour and is not a mental disorder. Mental illness is one of the major causes of suicide – the most common are depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorder.

 

Suicide is present in every culture and is due, in addition to mental disorders, to complex social, cultural, religious, and socio-economic factors. Also, the reasons for suicide are different for different regions. Therefore, it is important to know what the most common reasons for suicide are in the region in which you are currently living in. Although, it could be difficult to determine the reasons due to the taboos and the stigmas around suicide. 

 

In addition to reasons for suicide, it is also important to understand the methods of suicide as it may vary from location to location. This information may help in creating a suicide prevention plan.

 

Suicide can be prevented! Most suicidal people do not want to die. They simply do not want to live with the pain. It is important that you know the warning signs and risk factors for suicide, and the reasons why someone might have thoughts of suicide.

 

Signs a person may be suicidal include: 

1. Talking about suicidal thoughts or intent

2. Hating and cursing oneself

3. Looking for a lethal way to commit suicide

4. Arranging things to be left behind

5. Saying goodbye as if you’ll never see them again

6. Withdrawing from others

7. Self-destructive behaviours

8. Drastic physical and mood changes

 

The following are the most common (and strongest) risk factors for suicide in young people. Remember that a risk factor does not mean something that causes an event to happen. Rather, it is something that increases the probability of an event.

• Depression or other mental disorder

• Previous suicide attempt

• Family history of suicide

• Excessive alcohol or drug use

 

Suicide risk is higher in people with mental disorders, in particular those with: Depression, Bipolar Disorder (Manic Depression), Schizophrenia, and Substance Use Disorder.

 

To reduce suicides during the COVID-19 pandemic it is important to decrease stress, anxiety, fears, and loneliness. Some things that you can do to reduce your stress and anxiety:

• Stay connected with your loved ones

• Maintain relationships by phone or video

• Get enough sleep

• Eat healthy foods

• Exercise 

• Find community support (if needed)

• Make time to unwind and rest

• Stay informed

• Avoid reading too much news

 

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Further reading on what to do if someone is suicidal

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 Helping others who struggle with suicide

 

Self-help for suicide

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Maintaining mental health during the pandemic and how to access mental health services

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More specific guide to free online consultation

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References

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Into the Light. (2020, June 11). Kenali 8 Tanda Peringatan Bunuh Diri. Into the Light. https://www.intothelightid.org/tentang-bunuh-diri/tanda-peringatan-bunuh-diri/

 

Mental Health First Aid Guidelines. (2016). Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviours. Mental Health First Aid Guide. https://mhfa.com.au/sites/default/files/MHFA_suicide_guidelinesA4%202014%20Revised.pdf

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Teen Mental Health. (2017). Mental Health and Highschool Curriculum Guide: Understanding Mental Health and Mental Illness. Teen Mental Health. http://teenmentalhealth.org/curriculum/.