Understanding Suicide: A Comprehensive Study of its Causes, Risk Factors, Prevention Strategies, and

Personal Experiences

MEMBERS:
Panal, John Matthew B.
Andal, Bethany Chloe
Ganaden, Jie Ann P.
Kinggingan, Chestine Ayka C.
Rodriguez, Christine P.
Silipen, Sunshine S.
STEM 12- J

I.
II.
There are several common warning signs that may indicate that a person is contemplating suicide.
One of the key signs is persistent sadness and mood swings. Depression poses a significant risk factor
for suicide. Another warning sign is when an individual experiences a sudden calmness following a
period of depression or moodiness. They may also choose to withdraw from others, preferring to be alone
and avoiding social activities while simultaneously losing interest in or pleasure in activities they
previously used to enjoy.
Changes in personality, appearance, and sleep patterns can also be indicators of suicide, such as
exhibiting unusual speed or slowness in speech or movement, showing a lack of concern for personal
appearance, or experiencing significant alterations in sleep patterns. They would also engage in dangerous
or self-harmful behaviors, such as reckless driving, unsafe sex, or an increased reliance on drugs and
alcohol, which is another red flag to watch for (Recognizing Suicidal Behavior, 2023).
Recent trauma or life crises, including the loss of a loved one, divorce or relationship breakup, a major
illness diagnosis, job loss, or serious financial problems, can contribute to suicidal thoughts. Another one
is being in a state of deep despair, where an individual expresses feelings of hopelessness, believing they
have no reason to live, feeling like a burden to others, or being trapped in severe emotional pain. This
should not be taken lightly.
Making preparations for death, such as giving away personal possessions, creating a will, visiting
friends and family, or tidying up their living space, is another concerning sign. Some individuals may
actively search online for ways to die or attempt to acquire a firearm. Moreover, verbalizing suicide
threats or expressing a desire to die should always be taken seriously, even though not everyone who talks
about suicide will act on it.
It is vital to treat every suicide threat seriously and seek appropriate help and support.
There are also other behaviors that may indicate a serious risk, particularly if they are new, have
increased, or seem related to a painful event, loss, or change. Some of these behaviors include talking
about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain, acting anxious or agitated, behaving recklessly, withdrawing
from social interactions and feeling isolated, showing rage or talking about seeking revenge, and
displaying extreme mood swings. It is crucial to be vigilant and take these signs seriously as they can be
indications of distress and potential suicidal thoughts (Warning Signs for Suicide, 2020).
III.
Rarely does a single circumstance or incident lead to suicide. Instead, a variety of elements can raise
risk. These risk factors are conditions or issues that may make it more likely for someone to attempt
suicide.
1. People who were victims of violence or had an experience, as in the case of their childhood
abuse or even their past, that resulted in emotional distress for them and had a cognitive impairment for
them Many people who experience this feel desperate and trapped, so they attempt suicide.
2. Family problems occur when there is a conflict between or related to the family members that is
intense or frequent, like divorce, financial trouble, or arguments that interrupt the person and can cause
damage to his or her mental health and an attempt at suicide.
3. Losing an important person like a child, parent, friend, or other loved that feeling is the most
painful; it can easily become overwhelming, particularly in the short term when it is still fresh and then
later on during anniversaries of the loss. People who've undergone significant loss may feel emotionally
devastated and completely alone. They may also feel like they do not have the people who will help them
—emotional resources and social support. Losing an important person can trigger an existential crisis in
which the grieving person cannot see any reason to continue living their life.
4. People with a history of suicidality are most likely to attempt or commit suicide they learn how to
cope through a process and can also be obtained. In essence, children are watching their parents and other
members of the family and imitating what they see, and they don’t know if it’s right or wrong. A family
that attempts or completes suicide ends up unwittingly modeling for their children that suicide is an
acceptable method for coping with emotional pain or stressful situations.
5. People involved in committing crimes and people with criminal records are more likely to commit
suicide as a reason to escape the wrongdoings they committed, like rape, killing, stealing, and other sins.
Also, they use suicide as a reason to escape so that they won’t be in prison.
6. People who abuse themselves with alcohol and drugs, the combination of alcohol and drugs has a
side effect; a bad combination of them may lead to an overdose. And some people use this as a suicidal
attempt to do this by killing themselves.
7. People who are suffering or have a long-term serious illness, people experiencing long-term
illnesses like paralysis and loss of function in their body parts, commit suicide because of the pain and
discomfort that they feel and because they don’t want to struggle with their loved ones. People who suffer
in this situation also feel their lives are meaningless and lack quality of life because of their condition.
Recognizing and addressing these multifaceted factors is crucial in promoting mental well-being,
implementing effective prevention strategies, and providing the necessary support systems to those in
need, ultimately working towards reducing the prevalence of suicide and creating a more compassionate
and understanding society.
IV.
There are several ways that you, as a student, may support a friend who is having suicidal thoughts. It's
critical to address the circumstances with understanding, compassion, and a sincere desire to offer help.
First and foremost, it's critical to become familiar with the indicators of suicidal ideation. Giving up
possessions, cutting back on social interactions, observable behavioral changes, and the expression of
suicidal or death thoughts are a few examples of these warning signals. You can spot when your buddy
might want help by being aware of these warning signs.
It is crucial to have a sympathetic and nonjudgmental talk with your buddy as soon as you become
aware of these symptoms. Let them know you are willing to listen to them and offer assistance because
you honestly care about their well-being. Assure them that their sentiments are significant and valid, and
encourage them to communicate their thoughts and feelings. During these discussions, it's important to
pay attention and let your buddy speak freely without being interrupted or criticized. Make it safe for
them to talk without offering solutions or counsel right away. Your responsibility is to provide a safe
space where people can freely express themselves.
While giving your buddy emotional support is crucial, you should also urge them to get professional
assistance. Encourage them to speak with a mental health professional who can offer the necessary
direction and support, such as a counselor or therapist. Let them know that getting professional help is a
proactive move toward their well-being rather than a show of weakness. If they feel comfortable with
your engagement, offer to help them identify resources or go with them to appointments.
It's important to stay in touch with your friend on a regular basis and to check in on them regularly.
Share with them your support and the fact that they are not alone. Take part in enjoyable activities
together to provide a feeling of normalcy and a diversion from upsetting thoughts. However, it is crucial
to alert trustworthy authorities, such as a teacher, school counselor, or your buddy's parents, if you think
your friend is in immediate danger or their health worsens. These people may offer further aid and take
the necessary steps to guarantee their safety.
Remember to prioritize your own well-being while supporting your friend. To help you negotiate the
emotional difficulties that can occur from aiding a friend who is experiencing suicidal thoughts, get
support from reliable people or specialists.
V.
In the Philippines, there are several resources available for individuals who are contemplating suicide
or who are concerned about someone who may be at risk of suicide. Some of these resources include:
1. National Center for Mental Health Crisis Hotline: The National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) is
a government-run mental health facility in the Philippines that provides a 24/7 crisis hotline for
individuals in crisis or for those who are concerned about someone who may be at risk of suicide. The
hotline number is (02) 8-989-8727.
2. Hopeline Philippines: This is a 24/7 suicide prevention and crisis hotline run by the Natasha
Goulbourn Foundation. The hotline number is (02) 8-804-4673 or 0917-558-4673.
3. Philippine Mental Health Association: The Philippine Mental Health Association (PMHA) is a non-
governmental organization that provides mental health services and resources to individuals in the
Philippines. The PMHA has several branches throughout the country that provide counseling and other
services to those who are struggling with mental health issues, including suicidal ideation.
4. Local mental health clinics and hospitals: Many communities in the Philippines have mental health
clinics and hospitals that offer counseling and other services to individuals who are struggling with
mental health issues, including suicidal ideation.
VI.
The seven times suicidal attempt of Pastor Paul in Toni G talks is a failure that leads to a serious case
because he is afraid to disappoint his parents. With every lower score he gets in exams and quizzes, he
feels disappointed in himself because what he wants is to always be on top in the class. At a young age,
even though he knew that suicide was wrong, he still did it. Not only that, he attempted suicide many
times due to family problems, disappointment, and the loss of loved ones.

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