Shedding Light on Suicide Prevention Day - Understanding the Signs and Causes

AS the world comes together to observe Suicide Prevention Day, on:- 10 September 2023, it's increasingly importance we recognize the signs of suicidal behaviour and increase people's understanding of the underlying reasons that drive individuals to such desperate lengths. Suicide is a complex issue affecting people from all walks of life, and Suicide Prevention Day serves as a reminder to promote empathy, support, and education to prevent these tragic losses.

Lee Hawker Lecesne MBPsS, Clinical Director, at The Cabin, is hoping to raise awareness about the signs to watch out for, break the stigma surrounding suicide, and offer support to those concerned about their loved ones. Located in:- Chiang Mai, Thailand, The Cabin is Asia's most respected rehab and has successfully treated over 5,000 inpatients. Lee comments:- "By recognizing the signs, offering understanding, and promoting open conversations about mental health, we can make a significant difference in preventing suicide and supporting those who are struggling,"

Recognizing the Signs...

Identifying the warning signs of suicide is crucial in offering timely help and intervention. While not all individuals exhibit the same symptoms, some common signs to watch out for include:-

Expression of Hopelessness: Persistent feelings of hopelessness and despair may be evident in conversations or social media posts. Pay attention to individuals articulating feelings of being trapped.

Withdrawal and Isolation:- Individuals contemplating suicide often withdraw from friends, family, and social activities or may excessively begin seeking solitude.

Drastic Mood Swings:- Severe and rapid changes in mood can be indicative of internal turmoil. These unpredictable shifts in emotions may range from extreme sadness to anger or apathy.

Increased Substance Abuse:- Escalating the use of drugs or alcohol might be a way to cope with emotional pain. Sudden recklessness may not just include increased alcohol or drug use but may manifest through the individual neglecting their personal appearance or established commitments.

Giving Away Possessions:- People contemplating suicide may give away their belongings as if preparing for their departure.

Talking about Suicide:- Direct or indirect references to self harm or ending one's life should never be ignored.

The Driving Forces...

Understanding the underlying reasons for suicidal behaviour is critical in addressing this alarming issue. Several factors contribute to suicidal ideation, and some of the key ones are:-

Mental Health Disorders:- Conditions such as:- depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia can heighten the risk of suicide.

Socioeconomic Stress: The current cost of living crisis in the UK may exacerbate financial burdens, leading to increased anxiety and hopelessness.

Gambling and Addiction: The rise in gambling and addiction issues can significantly impact a person's mental state and exacerbate suicidal tendencies.

Gender Disparities...

National statistics from the UK reveal alarming disparities in suicide rates between genders. In 2021, men accounted for around 75% of all suicide deaths in the UK. This stark difference can be attributed to various societal and cultural factors that impact men differently such as social expectations: traditional masculine norms can discourage men from expressing vulnerability or seeking help, leading to a lack of emotional support and communication styles: men may be less likely to openly discuss their feelings, leading to internalization of emotional distress.

The Stigma Surrounding Suicide...

The stigma surrounding suicide often prevents individuals from seeking help when they need it the most. Society's judgment and misconceptions about mental health can make people hesitant to discuss their struggles openly. The stigma associated with mental health issues is 1 of the most significant challenges in addressing suicides. The fear of judgment and discrimination can be a powerful motivator to keep overwhelming feelings locked away. This prevents many individuals from seeking help, exacerbating their struggles. Breaking down this stigma is essential to creating a supportive environment where individuals feel comfortable seeking assistance.

Aftermath for Families...

The impact of suicide extends far beyond the individual, leaving families and loved ones grappling with:- grief, guilt, and unanswered questions. The emotional toll can be overwhelming, necessitating additional support and resources for those left behind.

The impact of suicide including:- the psychological and emotional aftermath for families is profound and far reaching. Grieving the loss of a loved 1 to suicide comes with its own unique set of challenges. The broad range of issues can include:-

Guilt and Self Blame:- Families may wrestle with feelings of guilt, questioning whether they could have done more to prevent the tragedy.

Unanswered Questions:- The sudden and unexpected loss of a loved 1 leaves families grappling with unresolved questions, leading to prolonged grief.

Emotional Toll:- The emotional toll of suicide bereavement can lead to various mental health challenges, such as:- depression, anxiety, and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Social Isolation:- The stigma surrounding suicide can result in social isolation for families, as others may not know how to offer support.

What You Can Do...

If you are concerned about a loved one's well being, here are steps you can take to offer support:-

Initiate a Caring Conversation: Approach the person with empathy and non judgment. Express your genuine concern for their well being and create a safe space for them to share their feelings.

Encourage Professional Help: Encourage them to seek professional help from mental health experts such as a therapist or counselor, to provide specialized care. or call The Samaritans helpline.

Offer Support by Listening Without Judgment:- Be a listening ear and a source of emotional support throughout their journey to recovery. Try to be an empathetic listener, offering your support without judgment or pressure.

Remove Access to Means or Means of Self Harm:-

If you believe the situation is urgent or suspect immediate danger, remove any potential tools for self harm from their vicinity and seek immediate assistance.

Stay Connected: Maintain regular contact and check in on their well being regularly, showing that you care.

On Suicide Prevention Day, let's come together as a compassionate and supportive community to both break the silence surrounding suicide and educate ourselves about the signs of suicide, its underlying causes, and the steps we can take to support those in need.

Lee comments:- "By fostering understanding, empathy, and open dialogue, we can offer hope to those who may feel lost in the darkness. Remember, you are not alone. Seeking help is a sign of strength, and together, we can not only make a difference in the lives of those struggling with suicidal thoughts but also create a safer and more empathetic environment for all those affected more broadly by suicide."

If you need someone to talk to, we listen. Samaritans won't judge or tell you what to do. Whatever you're going through, you can call us any time, from any phone for FREE, on:- 116123. To get more information and to find out other ways they can help you, please go to:- Samaritans.Org.

Night time driving laws you need to know about as the evenings get darker

INTERNATIONAL Drivers Association are issuing a warning as the nights are getting darker, rule 248 of the UK Highway Code stipulates that if you are parking your vehicle on a road with a speed limit higher than 30 mph at nighttime, you are required to leave your sidelights on. This rule aims to increase the visibility of parked cars, making it easier for other road users to spot them, thus reducing the risk of collisions.

Why Is This Rule Important?

• Visibility:- On roads with higher speed limits, drivers are moving quickly and have less time to react to obstacles. A parked vehicle without lights could be nearly invisible until it's too late.
   

• Road Safety:- The higher the speed limit, the more severe the consequences of a collision. Therefore, measures that can reduce the risk, such as keeping sidelights on, are particularly important on these faster roads.
   

• Public Awareness:- Many drivers are not aware of this rule, thinking that parking lights are more of a courtesy than a legal requirement. Awareness of this could prevent accidents and fines.

What Are Sidelights?

• Sidelights, also known as parking lights or running lights, are the small, white or amber lights located at the front corners of the vehicle, often integrated into the headlamp unit. They are not as bright as headlights but are sufficient for making a vehicle visible in the dark.

Legal Implications...

• Potential Fines:- Failure to adhere to this rule could lead to a fine. While it may not be as hefty as a fine for a more serious driving offense, it's an expense that can easily be avoided, with fines as high as £300.
   

• Points on License:- Depending on the situation and the discretion of law enforcement, you could potentially also receive points on your license for this oversight.

Michael BIssona, from the IDA explains the Insurance Impact:- "Being found in violation of any Highway Code rule can have implications for your car insurance rates. It's worth noting that parking rules can vary by jurisdiction and specific conditions, so always check local rules and regulations in addition to the Highway Code when you're unsure. Overall, Rule 248 serves as a useful, albeit lesser known, guideline aimed at keeping roads safer, and it's in every driver's best interest to be aware of it."