Suicide never depends on a single factor. It is the result of a combination of multiple elements, such as the person's living environment, whether or not they have social support and the possibility of getting help when the person needs it most. Nor is it the result of a specific problem; rather, it is a result of how the person perceives the problem. Most of the time, the person does not want to take their own life but they feel so hopeless that they think it is the only solution to their problem.
After trying, unsuccessfully, multiple ways to solve their problems and end their suffering, the idea of suicide starts to invade the person's thoughts. It's as if the person is moving through a tunnel: they begin to see less and less light and start believing that they will never see the end, which makes their suffering intolerable.
Still, it is possible to reverse this process. When a suicidal person finds a new solution to their problems, their suffering is reduced and their suicidal thoughts fade away. This is why suicidal individuals remain ambivalent until the last moment: despite their feelings of hopelessness, they’re still looking for a solution.
A person can be more vulnerable as a result of their life experience (for example, if they are a victim of abuse or violence or have a mental health disorder).
Consuming and abusing drugs, lacking the necessary resources in their environment and previously having suicidal thoughts increase the risk.
It is generally a case of “the straw that breaks the camel's back” (for example, the loss of a job, a breakup, a rejection or a recent bereavement).
A person will be less likely to attempt suicide if they have the necessary resources and support from their friends and family and if the people with whom they associate are healthy role models.
It's normal to feel powerless and as if you lack the necessary resources when a friend or family member is thinking about suicide and you want to help them. We often wonder what we should and shouldn't do or we try to find help and answers to our questions.
If the suicidal person suddenly seems to be doing better when nothing in their life has changed, it can be a sign that the person is going to take their own life. You must get help immediately. Likewise, if nothing has changed or improved despite the interventions made in the person's life and entourage, contact our crisis centre to assess the urgency of the situation. We will then be able to create an action plan to ensure that the person stays safe and that you get the support you need.
One of the best ways to prevent suicidal thoughts and to prevent your suffering from becoming overwhelming is to maintain good mental health. Everyone can have good mental health. Even people suffering from mental health problems can feel a sense of well-being, be successful and lead a fulfilling life.
Maintaining a balance in the different areas of our lives (social, physical, mental, economic, spiritual and emotional) is essential to good mental health. While some periods of our lives may be challenging and maintaining balance is difficult (such as a troubled family life, demanding work, completing studies, health problems, supporting someone with limitations), they can still be an opportunity to question our lifestyle and make choices to regain balance. Below are a few ways to maintain good mental health.
The loss of a loved one by suicide follows the normal grieving process, with a few small differences and particularities.
When in mourning, most people go through a number of stages (according to Bowlby, 1985) but not necessarily in a linear fashion:
Following a suicide, a person in mourning may also feel intense emotions, such as the following:
A person in mourning can also begin to have suicidal thoughts. It is important that you seek help during this difficult time to share your pain, fears and doubts. Find someone with a sympathetic ear who can provide you with the support you need. Having your emotions validated by someone you trust will help you get through the grieving process.
Support services are available for people in mourning. Contact us to learn about our postvention services and support group.
CRISIS AND SUICIDE PREVENTION HOTLINE 24 hours/day, 7 days/week
1 833 371-4090 TOLL-FREE
Privacy Officer
If you have any questions or concerns, wish to exercise your rights, or want to submit a complaint, please contact the Privacy Officer using the information below.
Lydie Elisha, Executive Director and Privacy Officer
l.elisha@letournant.qc.caAdministrative services
414 Rue Salaberry Ouest
Salaberry-de-Valleyfield (Qc)