Men's Health Month
What are signs that the man in your life may be depressed and suicidal? Keep in mind that these signs may vary from person to person, and it’s crucial to seek professional help if you’re concerned about someone’s well-being.
Potential warning signs of suicide in men:
• Expressing feelings of hopelessness or having no reason to live.
• Talking about or hinting at suicide, death, or self-harm.
• Withdrawing from social activities, family, and friends.
• Changes in sleep patterns, such as insomnia or excessive sleeping.
• Exhibiting extreme mood swings, agitation, or irritability.
• Displaying a sense of purposelessness or feeling trapped.
• Engaging in risky or self-destructive behavior, such as substance abuse or reckless driving.
• Giving away personal belongings or making arrangements as if preparing for an end.
• Loss of interest in hobbies, work, or previously enjoyed activities.
• Sudden improvement or calmness following a period of depression, possibly indicating they have made a decision to end their life.
It’s important to approach the situation with empathy, compassion, and non-judgment. Encourage the person to seek professional help, such as a mental health counselor or a confidential helpline and offer your support in finding the necessary resources. If there is immediate danger or the person has a plan to harm themselves, it’s crucial to contact emergency services and have him visit the nearest hospital emergency room.
Remember, I strongly encourage you to reach out to a mental health professional for an evaluation and treatment tailored to the specific situation.
Remember these simple steps in approaching a depressed male:
• Ask the person directly– “Do you have thoughts of not wanting to live; thoughts that you are better off dead; thoughts of wanting to hurt yourself? What would be your plan?
**If yes, call 911 or take to the nearest hospital emergency department immediately for a professional evaluation**
• Understand that asking a person if they are suicidal does not “plant the idea” in their head.
• Normalize that treating depression is just like a person would go to the doctor and have their high blood pressure treated.
• Acknowledge that you appreciate and see their efforts and that we all need the help of one another.
• Explain that all psychiatric and mental health services are highly confidential.
• Ask your partner who they would trust and feel most comfortable speaking to about their thoughts and feelings.
• Seeking help for depression will better the relationship and is a brave and attractive/sexy approach to wellness.
• Make a safety plan with your partner (make safe words when they are not doing well, remove firearms or lock firearms away, dispose of all medications not being used/locked meds in cabinet, monitor alcohol and drug consumption).
