Many people deal with depression, anxiety, and more. Some people also experience suicidal ideas. It’s a thing that intrudes some people’s thoughts. Individuals can experience loss of appetite, sleeplessness, and a lack of motivation to take care of themselves. As Brown University reports, before Covid-19, the amount of people who had depression and suicidal thoughts was 8.5% but now that number has jumped to 27.8%. It is important that we can recognize the warning signs when a loved one is struggling.
According to The Nan Project, an initiative that provides “communities and schools the forum, tools and resources needed to accept and address depression and suicidality,” some signs that you might notice are someone talking about themselves being dead or wanting to kill themselves, loss of motivation, anxious behavior or always on guard, sleeping a little or too much, isolating themselves, or extreme mood swings.
According to Lane Moore of Cosmopolitan Magazine, if you are concerned, it is extremely important to get your loved one to a professional. Being a worried friend is a signal to that person that they are welcomed and cared for. You could also hang out with the friend; taking their mind off the thoughts that keep them busy is the best way to put their mind at ease and putting energy in the person to avoid going further in the thoughts.
As Moore shares, something you could also do is telling the person that you don’t want them to die. This expression shows that you have emotions about the person and their life. You demonstrate to the suffering person that you’ll be upset over their actions. And if you don’t know what to say, that’s ok! Simply say, “I don’t know what to say.” This response is better than making a joke out of the person's feelings or simply being silent.
Finally, as the BeThe1To website suggests, keep following up with your friend and check the progression or decrease in their feelings, thoughts and emotions. Consistent check-ins show that you care about how they are doing and their emotional well-being.
If you are concerned about a friend, please see this resource for specific information on how to access professional treatment options. Professional support is available. Now, you know how to help a friend in need!
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