"Cutting off your nose to spite your face," according to Wikipedia, is an expression used to describe "a needlessly self-destructive over-reaction to a problem." It smacks of something that is inevitable, intentional and unforgiveable.
All too often, it's that very sort of cut-and-dried attitude some folks adopt toward those who attempt or complete suicide. They believe suicide is the result of a conscious and purposeful decision to harm one's self and as such, there's nothing much anyone else can do to help prevent it. Sadly, many who could have been helped or saved continue to go unheeded in light of that very attitude.
The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and the Human Development Center (HDC) remind us there are, indeed, simple steps we can take to be aware of the warning signs of suicide in order to help prevent it.
Pay attention to signs that might indicate someone is considering or planning to end his or her life - signs such as statements about hopelessness, helplessness or worthlessness; sudden change from a depressed mood to a happier, calmer mood; giving away cherished possessions; isolating oneself from friends or family; making arrangements or setting one's affairs in order; or direct or indirect statements that reference death or dying - and take action, even in the face of making that someone angry or upset.
Other risk factors include substance use (a person is more likely to attempt suicide when under the influence of drugs or alcohol), a recent crisis or loss, family history of suicide or mental illness, access to firearms or other lethal means, past experiences of trauma, and chronic pain that doesn't respond to treatment.
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"Talk about it," urges the HDC, explaining that if you are concerned that someone you know might be considering suicide, come right out and ask him or her. Sometimes, you may even have to ask more than once, or take more than one approach.
According to the MDH, research indicates that merely asking those sorts of questions does not actually cause a person to start thinking about suicide if they haven't done it already. In response, do your best to listen without judgment. Let that person know you care, that he or she is not alone, and that help is available. Offer to help them find a doctor or counselor, or offer to call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline with them.
If someone is in immediate crisis, call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (800-273-8255), or to speak to someone locally, call HDC's 24-hour crisis line at 1-800-634-8775.
Do not hesitate to make such a call if you suspect that someone may be a danger to him- or herself. It could save that person's life - and it could all start with you.
