Understanding Youth Suicide

Suicide and self harm are usually things that people are often ashamed to talk about, it’s a delicate subject (taboo). 

Suicidal thoughts and self-harm are deeply painful experiences often linked to emotional distress, mental health struggles, and trauma. While these feelings can be overwhelming, it’s important to understand they don't define you, and with support, they can be managed.

Suicidal thoughts often arise from feelings of hopelessness, emotional pain, or overwhelming stress. People may not always want to die but may seek relief from their suffering. Self-harm, such as cutting or burning, is another way some people cope with emotional pain, though it can provide only temporary relief and often leads to more distress. Both issues are signs of needing help, not of weakness or a lack of resilience.

Why People Experience These Struggles

• Trauma and Abuse: Past experiences of abuse or trauma can make people feel disconnected and desperate, leading to harmful coping mechanisms.

• Life Stressors: Major life changes, such as loss, can trigger these painful thoughts and behaviors.

• Isolation: Feeling disconnected from others can amplify emotional pain and increase the likelihood of self-harm or suicidal ideation.

• Bullying : Bullying is a deliberate and repetitive act of aggressive behavior, typically aimed at causing harm or distress to another person. It can manifest in various forms, including:

Physical Bullying: Involves physical harm or threats, such as hitting, pushing, or damaging someone's property.

Verbal Bullying: This includes name-calling, teasing, mocking, or making hurtful comments aimed at someone's appearance, intelligence, or abilities.

Social or Relational Bullying: Involves damaging someone's reputation or relationships, such as spreading rumors, excluding someone from a group, or manipulating others to turn against them.

Cyberbullying: Takes place online or through digital platforms. It includes harassment, spreading rumors, or sending threatening or harmful messages through social media, text messages, or other digital means.

The impact of bullying can be severe, leading to emotional distress, anxiety, depression, social isolation, and, in extreme cases, self-harm or suicidal thoughts. It can affect people of all ages, though it is especially common among children and adolescents in school settings.

Bullying often involves a power imbalance, where the bully seeks to assert control or dominance over the victim. It is important to address bullying through prevention programs, supportive interventions, and fostering a culture of respect and empathy.

Coping Strategies for Suicidal Thoughts and Self-Harm

1. Acknowledge Your Pain: Recognize that your feelings are real and valid. Be kind to yourself as you begin to work through your emotions.

2. Reach Out for Help: Talking to someone you trust can provide support. If you’re not ready to talk to a loved one, professional help is available through therapists, counselors, and 24/7 helplines.

3. Seek Professional Help: Therapy, especially cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can help you understand and challenge negative thoughts. Medications may also be prescribed to manage underlying mental health conditions.

4. Develop Healthy Coping Mechanisms:

   • Journaling: Writing down your feelings can help process emotions and reduce the urge to self-harm.

   • Physical Activity: Exercise, even a short walk, can boost your mood and reduce stress.

   • Mindfulness: Techniques like deep breathing or meditation can help manage intense emotions and break the cycle of self-harm or suicidal thoughts.

   • Creative Outlets: Engaging in art, music, or other creative activities can provide an emotional release and help shift focus from pain.

5. Create a Safety Plan: A safety plan includes people to contact during a crisis, calming activities, and steps to ensure safety if you feel overwhelmed by suicidal or self-harm urges

There is an app called LYYNK it’s really helpful 

Supporting Someone Who is Struggling

• Listen Without Judgment: Offer empathy and understanding. Don’t downplay their feelings or rush to fix things—just listen.

• Encourage Professional Help: Suggest speaking with a therapist and offer to help with appointments or be there for support.

• Stay Connected: Regularly check in with them to reduce isolation and remind them they are not alone.

• Ask Directly About Suicide or Self-Harm: If you’re worried, ask openly if they are considering hurting themselves. It can open important conversations and make them feel supported.

While recovery takes time, it’s important to remember that healing is possible. Taking small steps each  day, whether through therapy, self-care, or rediscovering passions, can lead to brighter days. Focus on manageable goals, practice gratitude, and reconnect with supportive people in your life. Suicidal thoughts and self-harm are deeply painful but manageable with the right support. Reaching out for help and developing healthy coping strategies can provide relief and a pathway to recovery. You are not alone, and with time and patience, healing is possible.