SUICIDAL BEHAVIOURS
It's hard for men to discuss their mental health and vulnerabilities, especially regarding suicidal thoughts or behaviours.
It's even harder for those around them to identify any potential signs.
Suicidal behaviour is often very subtle and hard to detect, however, it’s important that we remain vigilant in our observations and try to look out for the people.
Asking for help is seen as a sign of weakness and many men keep it all inside instead of expressing what they are going through.
This can make it incredibly difficult to recognise the signs that someone may be considering suicide.
Here are the top suicidal behaviours that we commonly miss in men.
SOCIAL WITHRAWAL
if a man has been increasingly distant lately and avoiding social situations that they once enjoyed, this could be a sign that something is bothering them.
GIVING AWAY BELONGINGS
When someone feels hopeless and in despair, they may start giving away items to family members or friends as if they're saying goodbye.
RISK-TAKING BEHAVIOURS
Doing dangerous activities without fear of consequences can indicate that someone doesn't care whether or not they survive the activity.
SEEKING ACCESS TO WEAPONS
If you notice an increase in firearms purchases or an attempt to acquire weapons from others, this could indicate someone contemplating taking their life with violence.
TALKING ABOUT DEATH
Talking about Death more than usual or frequently referring to dying. This could mean they are considering suicide as an option out of their current circumstances.
POOR SELF-CARE HABITS
Dropping personal hygiene habits, such as showering regularly or not eating enough, can signal a person is losing interest in life. They could possibly be considering suicide as an escape from their problems.
INCREASED ALCOHOL/DRUG USE.
Unexpected changes in substance use can be another red flag for suicidal behaviour; if someone begins drinking heavily or using drugs more often, they may be using these substances to cope with dark feelings and thoughts, ending their life on purpose.
LOSS OF INTEREST IN ACTIVITIES THEY ONCE ENJOYED
Not having the same enthusiasm for hobbies they used to enjoy can indicate depression and thoughts of ending their life as a way out of feeling low all the time.
CHANGE IN SLEEPING HABITS
Whether its insomnia or sleeping too much, any significant change in sleeping patterns should raise suspicion since sleep disturbances are often linked with suicidal thinking and actions
HOW CAN YOU HELP MEN
Knowing these common signs of suicidal behaviour can help you stay alert and identify when your loved one might need extra support during difficult times in their lives—whether it's just lending an ear for listening or connecting them with professional help like therapy or counselling services available near you —it's essential not to overlook any sudden changes in behaviour from those around you; especially if it involves potential signs of suicidal ideation among men who rarely express themselves emotionally outside their inner circle