Why do people die by suicide? In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most common reasons people choose to end their lives and offer ways to get help if you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts.

Reasons Why People Die By Suicide (Suicide Risk factors)

By knowing the warning signs and risk factors of suicide, we can help save lives. There are many different factors that can contribute to someone taking their own life. They include:

1. Mental Illness

The majority of individuals who attempt suicide do so impulsively rather than carefully planning it. While a variety of factors might influence a person’s decision to attempt suicide, the most prevalent is depression. Depression may cause people to feel great emotional pain and despair, making it impossible for them to see any alternative way to relieve their suffering except by ending their life.

Other mental illnesses that can increase the risk of suicide include:

• anxiety disorders

• schizophrenia

• eating disorders

• substance abuse disorders

2. Bullying

Bullying is another major factor that can lead to suicide. Unfortunately, bullying has become more prevalent in recent years due to the growth of social media. Cyberbullying, in particular, can be extremely damaging because it allows bullies to reach their victims 24/7.

3. Chronic Illness Or Pain

Chronic physical pain or illness can also lead to suicide attempts. People who live with chronic pain often suffer from depression as well, which can worsen the effects of the pain. The constant physical pain may make it difficult for people to see any hope for relief, leading them to believe that suicide is their only way out.

4. Trauma

Traumatic events, such as the death of a family member, rape, or military combat, can also lead to suicide. People who have experienced trauma often struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can make it difficult for them to cope with the memories of the event.

5. Financial Struggles

Money problems are another common reason why people attempt suicide. Financial struggles can cause immense stress and anxiety, leading people to believe that they are not worth saving. The feelings of hopelessness and helplessness that come with financial struggles can make it difficult for people to see any way out except suicide.

Ways To Help

If you are worried about someone who may be suicidal, there are several things you can do to help:

1. Talk To Them

The first and most important thing you can do is to talk to the person. This may be difficult, but it is important to express your concern and let the person know that you are there for them. Asking directly if they are thinking about suicide will give them the opportunity to open up about their feelings and start a conversation about getting help.

2. Listen

It is also important to listen to what the person is saying. Showing that you care and are interested in what they have to say will make it more likely for them to open up to you. Avoid judging or telling them what they should do; instead, let them know that you support whatever decision they make.

3. Help Them Find Professional Help

If the person is in need of professional help, offer to assist them in finding a therapist or other mental health professional. You can also call a suicide hotline together and look for resources in your community.

4. Remove Any Means Of Self-harm

If the person has access to firearms, medications, or other means of self-harm, it is important to remove them from the home if possible. If you cannot remove them, make sure they are out of reach and that someone else knows where they are.

5. Follow Up With Them

After you have talked to the person and helped them get professional help, it is crucial to follow up with them. Check in with them regularly to see how they are doing and offer your support. Let them know that you are there for them and that they are not alone.

Mental Health Resources

If you or someone you know is in need of mental health assistance, there are many resources available. Here are a few to get you started:

1. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255

2. Crisis Text Line: 741-741

3. National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264

4. Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance: 1-800-826-3632

5. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: 1-800-662-4357

Why Do People Die By Suicide?- Final Thoughts

If you are worried about someone who may be suicidal, it is important to talk to them and offer your support. Helping someone who is in need is one of the most rewarding things you can do. And showing that you care can make all the difference in the world.