SUICIDAL AND SELF-HARM

Introduction
Suicidal thoughts and self-harm are serious issues that have significant implications on
individuals, families, and the society.
The following are definitions of each of these concepts:
 Suicide is defined as death caused by self-directed injurious behavior with intent to die as
a result of the behavior.
 Suicidal ideation refers to the persistent thoughts, fantasies, or contemplation of taking
one's own life. These thoughts can vary in intensity, from fleeting ideas to detailed plans.
 Self-harm involves deliberately inflicting harm on oneself to cope with emotional pain or
stress. Self-harm can manifest in various forms, such as cutting, burning, hitting, or
scratching oneself. Individuals who engage in self-harm may not necessarily have
suicidal intentions, but it is still a concerning behavior that requires attention and support.

Prevalence of Suicidal Ideation and Self-Harm in Society

Suicidal ideation and self-harm are alarmingly prevalent, especially among adolescents and
young adults. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 800,000
people die by suicide globally each year, which translates to one death by suicide every 45
seconds, making it a significant public health concern. The WHO also estimates that self-harm is
one of the leading causes of injury in young people. However, it's important to note that self-
harm can affect individuals of all age groups, and its incidence is not limited to any particular
demographic. In addition, over 264 million people suffer from depression worldwide.

Risk Factors and Potential Causes

Several risk factors contribute to the development of suicidal ideation and self-harm tendencies.
These risk factors can be both individual and environmental, and they often interact in complex
ways. Some common risk factors include:
i. Mental Health Disorders: Conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder,
borderline personality disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) significantly
increase the risk of suicidal ideation and self-harm.
ii. Previous Suicide Attempts: Individuals who have previously attempted suicide are at
higher risk of future attempts.
iii. Substance Abuse: Misuse of alcohol or drugs can impair judgment and exacerbate
feelings of hopelessness and despair.
 iv. History of Abuse or Trauma: Childhood abuse or trauma can have long-lasting effects
on mental health and contribute to suicidal thoughts or self-harm.
v. Social Isolation: A lack of social support and feelings of loneliness can intensify
emotional distress.
vi. Family History: Having a family history of suicide or self-harm can increase an
individual's vulnerability.
vii. Access to Lethal Means: Easy access to lethal methods, such as firearms or certain
medications, can increase the risk of completed suicide.
Other triggers that may exacerbate suicidal ideation or self-harm can include relationship
difficulties, academic or job-related stress, financial problems, loss of a loved one, or exposure to
suicide or self-harm of others (either in real life or through media).
Social media and societal perception also play a significant role. Hence, they are discussed in
detail as follows:
 Impact of Social Media on Mental Health and Self-Image: Social media platforms
have become an integral part of modern life, providing a means of communication, social
interaction, and self-expression. However, the excessive use of social media can have
negative implications on mental health and self-image, particularly for vulnerable
individuals. On social media, people often present carefully curated versions of their
lives, showcasing their best moments and achievements. This curated content can lead to
social comparison and feelings of inadequacy in others, especially if they perceive their
own lives as falling short in comparison to the seemingly perfect lives of others.
Moreover, social media platforms can become breeding grounds for cyberbullying,
harassment, and online abuse. Such negative experiences can exacerbate feelings of
isolation and contribute to emotional distress, especially for those who are already
struggling with their mental health. For individuals with suicidal ideation or self-harm
tendencies, exposure to self-harm content or pro-suicide communities on social media
can be triggering and harmful. Social media companies must take proactive measures to
enforce content guidelines and remove harmful content promptly to protect their users'
mental well-being.
 Societal Stigmatization and its Role in Exacerbating the Problem: Societal
stigmatization surrounding mental health issues, including suicidal ideation and self-
harm, is a significant barrier to seeking help and support. The prevailing
misunderstandings and negative attitudes towards individuals struggling with their mental
health often prevent open discussions about these issues. Stigma can lead individuals to
feel ashamed or embarrassed about their struggles, making it difficult for them to share
their emotions and experiences with others. The fear of judgment and rejection may
prevent them from reaching out for help, increasing their sense of isolation. Additionally,
stigmatization may perpetuate the misconception that suicidal ideation or self-harm is
attention-seeking behavior rather than a genuine cry for help. This misunderstanding can
lead to dismissive attitudes, preventing individuals from receiving the support and
 understanding they desperately need. It is crucial to combat stigmatization by fostering a
culture of empathy and openness.
Identifying Warning Signs and Seeking Help for Suicidal Ideation and Self-Harm

Identifying warning signs of suicidal ideation and self-harm is crucial in preventing tragedies and
offering support to those who are struggling.

Recognizing Signs of Suicidal Ideation and Self-Harm

Some common signs to watch for include:

 Expressing feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness.

 Talking about death, dying, or having no reason to live.
 Engaging in reckless behaviors without concern for their safety.
 Withdrawing from friends, family, and social activities.
 Experiencing sudden and extreme mood swings.
 Giving away belongings or making arrangements as if preparing for death.
 Displaying signs of self-harm, such as unexplained injuries or wearing long sleeves in
warm weather.

The Role of Peer Support and Intervention in Suicide Prevention

Peer support and intervention play a critical role in suicide prevention by providing a powerful
network of understanding, empathy, and assistance for individuals struggling with suicidal
thoughts or self-harm. Peer intervention involves recognizing the warning signs of suicidal
ideation or self-harm in a peer and taking appropriate action to ensure their safety. Peers are
often in a unique position to notice changes in behavior, mood, or emotional expressions that
others may overlook.
Peer support is an invaluable resource for individuals experiencing emotional distress, as it
provides a sense of belonging and validation. Peers who have encountered similar challenges can
offer empathy, as they can relate to the feelings of isolation and hopelessness that may arise
during times of crisis. Peer support can take various forms, such as support groups, one-on-one
mentoring, online forums, or helplines staffed by trained volunteers with lived experience. Such
initiatives create an environment where individuals can express their feelings without fear of
judgment and receive understanding and encouragement from those who have walked a similar
path.
For many individuals, talking to a peer who has faced similar struggles can be less intimidating
than seeking help from mental health professionals or other authority figures. Peer support can
bridge the gap between feeling isolated and finding the courage to seek professional help,
making it a vital component of suicide prevention efforts.
Encouraging open communication and providing a safe space for peers to express their concerns
can facilitate early intervention. Peers who suspect that a friend or classmate may be struggling
with suicidal thoughts or self-harm can:

 Approach the individual with empathy and without judgment.

 Listen actively and attentively to their concerns and feelings.
 Express care and concern for their well-being.
 Encourage them to seek professional help or connect them with available resources.
 In situations where immediate danger is perceived, peers should not hesitate to involve a
trusted adult or contact emergency services.

Seeking Professional/Medical Help

For individuals struggling with suicidal ideation or self-harm, seeking professional help is
essential. Mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, therapists, and
counselors, are trained to provide appropriate treatment and support.
Helplines, such as suicide prevention hotlines, are also valuable resources for individuals in
crisis. These helplines offer confidential and immediate support from trained volunteers who can
listen, provide guidance, and connect individuals with local resources.
It is crucial to break down the stigma surrounding mental health treatment and encourage
individuals to seek help without fear of judgment. Additionally, providing accessible and
affordable mental health services is essential in ensuring that everyone who needs support can
receive it.

Psychological Therapies
Psychological therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior
therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic therapy, play a vital role in helping individuals navigate
their emotional challenges. These therapies provide a safe and supportive environment for
individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings, gain insight into their behaviors, and develop
healthier coping strategies.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on changing negative thought patterns and
behaviors that contribute to emotional distress. By identifying and challenging negative beliefs,
individuals can develop more positive and constructive ways of thinking and responding to life's
challenges.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is particularly effective for individuals struggling with self-
harm or borderline personality disorder. It emphasizes skills training to manage emotions,
improve interpersonal relationships, and increase distress tolerance.
Psychodynamic therapy delves into an individual's subconscious mind to explore unresolved
conflicts and experiences from the past that may be influencing their present emotions and
behaviors. By gaining insight into these underlying issues, individuals can achieve a deeper level
of healing.

Integrating Medical and Psychological Treatment for Comprehensive Care

Comprehensive care for individuals dealing with suicidal ideation or self-harm involves the
integration of medical and psychological treatment. In cases where an individual's mental health
challenges require medication, combining pharmacotherapy with psychotherapy can be highly
effective.
Medical professionals, such as psychiatrists, can assess individuals for underlying mental health
disorders and prescribe appropriate medications if necessary. Psychologists and therapists can
then work alongside medical professionals to provide counseling and therapy to address the
emotional aspects of their struggles.
Integrating medical and psychological treatment ensures that individuals receive comprehensive
care that targets both the physiological and emotional aspects of their mental health. This
approach allows for a more holistic understanding of the individual's needs and enhances the
chances of successful recovery.

Rehabilitation Centers and Their Role in Facilitating Recovery

For individuals with severe emotional struggles and a history of self-harm or suicidal behavior,
rehabilitation centers can provide comprehensive care and support. These centers offer a safe and
structured environment where individuals can focus on healing and recovery.
Rehabilitation centers typically offer a combination of psychological therapies, medical support,
and holistic activities. The goal is to address the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of an
individual's well-being.
In these centers, individuals can participate in individual and group therapy, learn healthy coping
skills, and develop strategies to prevent relapse. Additionally, rehabilitation centers may provide
resources for education, vocational training, and building life skills to support the transition back
into daily life.

Coping Strategies for Managing Emotional Distress

Healthy coping strategies are essential tools for individuals to manage emotional distress and
develop resilience in the face of challenges. These strategies can help individuals navigate
difficult emotions and prevent them from resorting to self-harm or suicidal thoughts as coping
mechanisms. Some effective coping strategies include:
  Seek Professional Help: Encouraging individuals to seek support from mental health
professionals can provide valuable insights and guidance in understanding and managing
their emotions.
 Engage in Physical Activities: Regular exercise can release endorphins and help
alleviate stress and anxiety.
 Practice Mindfulness and Meditation: Mindfulness practices can help individuals stay
grounded in the present moment and reduce rumination on negative thoughts.
 Connect with Supportive Others: Building a strong social support network can provide
comfort and validation during challenging times.
 Express Emotions Creatively: Engaging in creative outlets, such as writing, painting, or
playing music, can provide an emotional release and a sense of accomplishment.
 Set Realistic Goals: Breaking down overwhelming tasks into manageable steps can
create a sense of progress and achievement.
 Avoid Substance Abuse: Refraining from using drugs or alcohol to cope with emotions
is essential, as they can exacerbate emotional distress.

In conclusion, peer support and intervention, prompt and competent medical help, and a
conducive environment and society are crucial components of suicide prevention efforts. By
implementing effective peer-led initiatives, we can foster a supportive and compassionate
environment that promotes mental well-being, reduces stigma, and saves lives. Through
collaboration between peers, mental health professionals, and communities, we can work
together to create a more resilient and understanding society that prioritizes suicide prevention
and mental health support for all.

REFERENCES
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suicidal intent in young people in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review. BMC
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3. Sampson, E., Mukherjee, S., Ukoumunne, O. C., Mullan, N., & Bullock, T. History of
deliberate self-harm and its association with mood fluctuation. Journal of affective
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