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Why Do Suicidal Thoughts Occur?
Suicidal thoughts can be brought on by a number of things, such as:
A mental illness; traumatic experiences like an assault or accident; past physical or sexual abuse; chronic pain or illness; loneliness or social isolation; stressful life events like divorce, the death of a loved one, or losing a job; drug or alcohol use; and exposure to suicide in the media, among peers, or among family members.
These are only a few of the risk factors that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) have identified (CDC). Suicidal thoughts may arise as a result of any circumstance or pattern of events that leaves a person feeling helpless or hopeless. These thoughts can also be brought on by particular life stages, such as pregnancy or adolescence.
Thoughts of Suicide During Pregnancy
Pregnancy can lead to mental health issues for many women. Thoughts of suicide and postpartum depression are both fairly typical; postpartum depression is a well-known condition. According to a Canadian study, suicide accounts for 5% of fatalities during pregnancy or the first year following childbirth.
Do not hesitate to ask your doctor for assistance if you have any mental health issues during or after your pregnancy. A variety of factors, including hormonal changes and the added responsibilities of parenthood, can contribute to suicidal thoughts while pregnant.
Medication
To help lessen suicidal thoughts, your doctor or psychiatrist may prescribe medication. When you have a mental health issue that is causing suicidal thoughts, medication is most frequently advised. Antidepressants, antipsychotic drugs, and anti-anxiety drugs are examples of medication classes that may be helpful.
Antidepressants and Suicidal Thoughts: Is It Possible?
Whether antidepressants can actually lead to suicidal thoughts has been a source of controversy. According to research, antidepressants may make people up to 24 years old more likely to have suicidal thoughts and actions. There was no increase in these thoughts for those between the ages of 25 and 30, and older adults had a lower risk of suicidal thoughts.
In October 2004, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a black box warning for antidepressants. The warning noted that these medications might raise the possibility of suicidal thoughts and actions in kids and teenagers. The FDA expanded the black box warning to include young adults in May 2007 and contained details on the suicide risk among patients with untreated depression.
Remember that taking an antidepressant, which might make you more suicidal, is less likely to result in suicide than not receiving treatment for a mental health disorder. The increase in suicidal thoughts is typically transient and only noticeable when beginning a new medication or changing the dosage. If, while taking an antidepressant, you experience suicidal thoughts, get in touch with your primary care physician immediately.
Stopping Suicidal Thoughts: A Guide
Suicidal thoughts can be frightening, dangerous, and debilitating. You might worry that the thoughts won’t stop or that you’ll do something with them. The best way to stop suicidal thoughts is to ask a doctor or other mental health expert for assistance. If that seems overwhelming, start by talking to a trusted friend, member of your family, or someone else you feel comfortable confiding in.
Contact us now if you’re prepared to make the first move toward managing your suicidal thoughts. Our skilled counselors and sympathetic staff will pay attention to you, help you feel understood, and assist you in figuring out how to deal with suicidal thoughts. We have several adolescent programs that can be of assistance if you are a parent worried about your child.