Warning Signs of Depression and Suicidal Behavior
Look for the following symptoms of suicidal depression:
Frequent thoughts of death or violence
Avoiding social contact
Talking about suicide
Increased drug or alcohol use
Risky or self-destructive behavior
Self harming
Saying goodbye to people like it’s the last time you’ll see them
Finding ways to kill yourself, like stockpiling drugs or buying a gun
Feeling hopeless or trapped
Extreme mood swings
Sleeping or eating more or less
Agitation or anxiousness
Giving away belongings
Risk Factors for Suicidal Depression
Suicidal depression can affect anybody. However, there are many risk factors that can increase a person’s risk of committing suicide, like:
Previous suicide attempts
Alcoholism or drug addiction
An underlying psychiatric problem, like PTSD, bipolar disorder, or major depression
Chronic pain or illness or a terminal diagnosis
Being LGBTQ+ in an unsupportive home
Feeling worthless, hopeless, agitated, lonely, or socially isolated
Having suicidal thoughts with a gun in the home
A stressful life event
A family history of drug abuse, mental illness, violence, or sexual abuse
Treatment for Suicidal Depression
Fortunately, suicidal depression is treatable. While medication, such as antidepressants, or talk therapy alone may work, the two are usually combined for the best results. In some cases, individuals may also explore options like obtaining an antidepressant prescription online as part of their comprehensive treatment plan.
Other treatment for suicidal depression may include:
Exercise – Getting at least 30 minutes of exercise 3-5 times per week can improve your mood
Limiting or eliminating drug or alcohol use – Drugs and alcohol can worsen depression
Alternative therapies – Acupuncture, meditation, or herbal supplements may improve symptoms
Light therapy – Using a UV lamp can increase levels of serotonin, the “happiness hormone”
Take care of yourself – Get enough sleep, avoid negative people, eat healthy, set boundaries, participate in activities you enjoy, learn a new skill
Read: High Functioning Depression
What is Depression
Depression is on the rise globally. According to the World Health Organization, “Depression is a common illness worldwide, with more than 264 million people affected.” It is important to understand what depression is and how to help yourself or others who may be struggling with suicidal thoughts.
Suicidal Depression Treatment Online
The good news is that suicidal depression is treatable. PlushCare offers two different services that may be able to help you or a loved one.
Our online therapy service allows you to book a virtual appointment with one of our licensed therapists. An online therapy appointment costs type: embedded-entry-inline id: 5HHgACU48sxRw5ZFdlLAxg per session. Our therapists are here to talk about any problems, struggles, or suicidal thoughts you or a loved one may be dealing with.
If our therapists believe you may benefit from medication, they may recommend you book an appointment with one of our trusted doctors. PlushCare is proud to offer convenient, reliable, and affordable virtual appointments you can access from the comfort of your home. Together, our therapists and doctors will work to ensure you get the help you deserve.
Some common prescriptions our doctors write are for antidepressants, including:
Asking for help for suicidal depression can be very difficult. Talking to a doctor or online therapist may be easier for those struggling to find the energy to actively seek out help.
You can feel better or help a friend or family member find hope and happiness again. All you need to do is reach out.
Read More About Symptoms of Suicidal Depression and How to Spot Suicidal Behavior
Sources
Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Promote National Suicide Prevention Month. Accessed on December 16, 2020 at https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/promote-national-suicide-prevention-month/
Mayo Clinic. Suicide and Suicidal Thoughts. Accessed on December 16, 2020 at https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/suicide/symptoms-causes/syc-20378048
World Health Organization. Depression. Accessed on December 16, 2020 at https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression
