In today’s busy world, many of us silently struggle with mental health issues, often feeling alone in our pain. Conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia can make life difficult, sometimes leading people to believe that suicide is the only escape. It’s important to understand how these mental health issues are linked to suicide so that we can better support those in need. We spoke to Sumalatha Vasudeva, Psychologist, Gleneagles BGS Hospital Kengeri, Bengaluru, which clarified the relationship between mental disorders and suicide risk.

According to the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, suicide is a major public health problem, accounting for 1.4% of all deaths worldwide. Most suicides are linked to mental disorders, with depression, substance use disorders, and psychosis being the most prominent risk factors.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a mental disorder is characterized by a clinically significant disturbance in an individual’s thinking, emotional control, or behavior, often leading to distress or difficulties in key areas of daily functioning.

Depression and its impact on suicidal thoughts

Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders and is closely linked to suicidal thoughts and behaviors. People with depression often experience persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness.

Vasudeva said: “These emotional states can seriously impair a person’s ability to cope with stress and maintain a sense of well-being. A pervasive sense of despair, combined with a profound loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable, can greatly increase suicidal thoughts. Depression can distort one’s perception of a situation, leading to a feeling that suicide is the only escape from suffering.”

Also read: World Suicide Prevention Day: Understanding the role of social media in suicidal thinking and what parents can do

Bipolar Disorder: Managing Mood Swings to Reduce Suicide Risk

“Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme mood swings, including manic and depressive episodes. Manic phases are characterized by increased energy, euphoria, and impulsiveness, which can lead to reckless behavior,” Vasudeva added.

Depressive episodes, on the other hand, are characterized by profound sadness and lack of motivation. The combination of these contrasting states can create a turbulent emotional landscape, increasing the risk of suicidal thoughts and actions.

Effective treatment of bipolar disorder with medication and therapy is key to stabilizing mood and reducing the likelihood of suicide. Proper treatment helps control extreme mood swings and gives people the tools to cope with their emotions more effectively.

Schizophrenia and Suicide Risk: Coping with Serious Thought Distortions

Schizophrenia involves severe distortions of thinking and perception, which can also increase the risk of suicide. People with schizophrenia may experience hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thought processes. These symptoms can lead to profound feelings of disorientation and hopelessness, which increases the risk of suicidal behavior.

“Schizophrenia can impair an individual’s ability to distinguish reality from delusion, making it difficult to cope with everyday life and emotional well-being. Addressing these symptoms through appropriate treatment, including antipsychotic medications and psychotherapy, is essential to controlling the disorder and reducing the risk of suicide,” Dr. Vasudeva said.

Also read: Mental Health Issues: Expert Explains When to Seek Therapy to Improve Your Mental Health

The Role of Parents, Caregivers and Educators in Suicide Prevention

For parents, caregivers, and educators, recognizing the signs of mental health disorders is key to preventing suicide. Look for signs such as prolonged sadness, drastic changes in behavior, withdrawal from social interactions, or expressions of hopelessness.

Early intervention is essential to effectively managing these conditions and mitigating the risk of suicide. Professional help, including therapy, medication, and support groups, plays a key role in treating mental health disorders and coping with suicidal thoughts.

Support for mental health and open dialogue

“Creating an environment that promotes open dialogue about mental health is also essential. Encouraging individuals to express their feelings and seek help can provide significant support. This approach helps break down the stigma associated with mental health issues and fosters a culture of understanding and empathy,” Vasudeva emphasized. Providing resources, facilitating access to mental health services, and supporting educational initiatives can contribute to more effective management and prevention of suicide.

Summary

Vasudeva concluded, “Understanding the relationship between mental health disorders and suicide risk is key to effective prevention and intervention. By recognizing the signs of mental health disorders and seeking timely professional help, we can support individuals in managing their condition and reducing their risk of suicide. Building a supportive environment and fostering open communication about mental health are key elements in addressing this critical issue and improving overall well-being.”

(Reservation: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Therefore, we advise you to consult your own specialist if you have any health problems to avoid complications.)