Social Media & Suicide: How to Spot the Warning Signs Early

0 Share

Athena Behavioral Health cares for you!

We care for you, and that is why we want to inform you in advance that this blog may contain some sensitive terms. While we intend to create awareness only, we understand that some parts might be triggering. If you find them uncomfortable, we would strongly advise you to pause reading and ensure your well-being. If needed, please feel free to reach out for support!

According to studies, suicide death rates have increased 62% from the year 2007 to the year 2021 amongst children and youth. Suicide attempts have also been increasing, and it is time to identify the specific causes and save lives. One speculated cause that is being explored is the use association between social media and suicide. So far, there are mixed studies shedding light on both the pros and cons of social media. Some of the disadvantages of social media include unhealthy social comparison, attention span-related concerns, and negative changes in sleep patterns.

As an individual who wants to support their loved ones and protect their life, you can pay attention to the early warning signs of psychological distress and offer your support!

The Connection Between Social Media & Suicide

Social media exposure can lead to a lot of varying effects on an individual’s well-being, such as:

1. Increased social stressors

2. Exposure to suicidal behaviours

3. Cyberbullying

4. Sleep pattern disturbed

As a consequence of the above-mentioned factors and many more, an individual’s mental health can deteriorate, making one more prone towards feeling hopeless and at risk of harming oneself.

The Double-Edged Role of Social Media

There can be both advantages and disadvantages of social media. This can be explained through the tabular chart given below:

The points mentioned above reflect the multiple pros and cons of social media.

How Online Behavior Reflects Mental Health

The disadvantages of social media can be reflected in one’s behaviour in the following ways:

1. Increased feeling of loneliness

2. Escalated fear of missing out

3. Increased chances of aggression

4. Harming self or others

Why Vulnerable Users Are at Higher Risk

A certain specific population, such as adolescents, young adults who are extremely active on social media and are consuming content without proper precaution, can be at a higher risk. Similarly, if a particular person is also already having low self-esteem and, through social media, they engage in social comparison, feeling even lower, that can also cause psychological distress.

Spotting the Warning Signs Online

If you can identify the warning signs early and take necessary steps to support the individual, then a precious life can be saved!

Changes in Posting Patterns

An important sign that can indicate emotional turbulence can be the type of content that is being shared, as well as at what frequency. This does not necessarily mean that the individual is at a risk of ending life, but if someone’s posting pattern has drastically changed, then it is worth having an honest conversation about it!

Expressions of Hopelessness or Self-Harm

There are many ways in which an individual may express hopelessness or self-harm tendencies. These can be through:

1. Verbal expression through chat

2. Sharing about concerns via an online video call

3. Posting about content related to self-harm or hopelessness

4. Engaging with content that encourages self-harm

Withdrawing From Online Interactions

Individuals may also end up isolating themselves due to increased distress. This can be observed in many ways:

1. Drastic decrease in posting content

2. Exiting social media groups

3. Decreased engagement in social groups

While the above-mentioned points are not directly linked with suicidal ideation, if you know someone who has been showing these, then it can be worth gently checking up on them.

Sharing Goodbye Messages or Dark Content

Posting via pictures and videos or even voice notes regarding goodbyes can be a warning sign that should be taken seriously. People might also engage with content that promotes self-harm or harm towards others, and that can also be a sign of probable emotional distress.

How to Support a Loved One in Need

As you try supporting a loved one in need, do check in on your mental wellness as well. Caregivers' stress can be tough, and remember, you are not alone; you also deserve proper support and care!

Reaching Out with Care and Empathy

Here are a few ways in which support can be offered:

1.  Reaching out consistently

2.  Listening without judgement

3.  Staying present with them

4.  Encouraging professional support

5.  Respecting the privacy and trust

Furthermore, if one feels that it is because of the disadvantages of social media that a person may be feeling distress, then efforts to reduce social media usage and use it mindfully can also be made.

Encouraging Open and Honest Conversations

An honest conversation with the right person can act as a new beginning towards better well-being. Staying present with the individual in crisis during the conversation and listening to concerns with an open mind can be helpful.

Offering Professional Help and Resources

There can be a limit to the support that an individual without the proper knowledge of mental health can offer. Thus, professional expertise can help in risk assessment, evaluation and proper treatment planning. One can find different professionals based on the concerns, such as:

1. Psychiatrists

2. Clinical psychologists

3. Counselling psychologists

4. Support group sessions

5. Expressive art therapists

Staying Consistent with Support Online and Offline

Consistency can play a crucial role in improving the mental health of an individual. As a caregiver, it is recommended to reach out regularly to ensure the well-being of the individual in distress. Furthermore, whether one is seeking professional support online or offline, periodic consultations can help the client work on their concerns in a systematic and structured way.

Taking Suicide Posts Seriously

With the increasing use of social media, individuals may also express their deepest thoughts via different online platforms, and at times, the thoughts can indicate suicidal ideation. It is essential to pay attention to these posts and offer support in the best way possible so that the individual’s life can be saved.

Why Every Sign Deserves Attention

Every sign deserves attention because it is linked to the thoughts, emotions and behaviour of that person. One can show care and attention even through a simple check-in text or a call. Sharing the resources regarding professional support or going out for a coffee can also be meaningful acts that can support an individual going through a mental health crisis.

Immediate Steps to Take if You See a Crisis Post

If you see a crisis post on social media, it is essential to check in with your feelings as well. Seeing a sensitive post may lead to feeling emotionally overwhelmed, so self-care also becomes important. Furthermore, if one feels comfortable, then reaching out for emotional support and, if needed, informing the guardians or family members of the person who can ensure well-being becomes crucial. As per the situation, one can also call emergency services regarding the post to support the individual.

When to Involve Professionals or Hotlines

1. If the risk of suicide is being observed, then involving professionals or hotlines becomes essential

2. Even if one feels doubtful about the emotional state, one can reach out to the professionals for proper guidance

Resources for Suicide Prevention

There are a lot of resources available to prevent suicides and create more awareness about the same. World Suicide Prevention Day is observed on 10th September to create more sensitivity about the topic and save as many lives as possible.

National and Local Hotlines

A lot of helplines are available, wherein an individual can call or chat when in extreme distress. Some of the helplines include:

1. Vandrevala Foundation

2. Tele MANAS

3. iCall

If one is seeking support from a specific mental health organisation, then one can inquire about their emergency support services.

Online Communities and Support Networks

There are a lot of organisations that conduct support group sessions on diverse topics. One can reach out to such organisations, connect with them and develop a stronger support network to feel more connected with society.

Trusted Mental Health Organizations

There are a lot of organisations, and to find out the more reliable one, one can explore the following points:

1. Accreditation of the organisation

2. Qualification and expertise of professionals

3. Specialised services offered

4. Previous clients' testimonials

5. Referral from a trusted healthcare professional

Conclusion

In today’s age, social media is influencing a lot of lives, and if you feel your or a loved one’s life is getting impacted negatively because of social media, then it is the right time to seek support. Mindful use of social media can be advantageous, but without proper caution, one can be prone towards social media addiction, risk of self-harm and suicide as well.

Reach out today at Athena Behavioral Health, which is one of the finest mental health care facilities in Delhi NCR, India, with expert professionals offering both inpatient and outpatient support. You are just a call away, +91 9289086193, from connecting with your trusted mental health partner!