What lifestyle choices can help reduce the risk of suicide? Why are people suicidal in the first place? Maybe they just can’t deal with the emotional pain anymore.

Also, they believe they’re alone and I think they’re afraid to ask for help. There is such a high stigma (although it’s coming down) with having a mental illness.

They think either others will see them as weak or pass judgement on them. Sometimes when I go to the ER and I tell them I’m schizophrenic, I get that pause of “oh, that explains everything.”

I know that living alone doesn’t particularly help. I was alone for several years and it felt like I was just wallowing in my problems and not getting any help.

Also, people who are suicidal, see that as the only way out of their miserable life. But it’s not the only answer. Speaking to you from a multiple suicide attempts person.

988 Lifeline

If you need to talk, the 988 Lifeline is here.

Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Risk of Suicide

There are several lifestyle changes that can help reduce the risk of suicide. These include:

Maintaining a strong support network of friends and family

Friends and family are extremely important. They are the ones you trust and they are going to be a part of your support system.

woman doing hand heart sign — Photo by Hassan OUAJBIR on Pexels.com

I didn’t have any support system that I felt could help me until I met my second husband. And even then, I blew it with another suicide attempt.

He wanted a divorce soon after. His mental state was about the same as mine after several traumas that affected his life. I think I was the catalyst.

He ended up with anxiety and other issues just like me. So, let your friends and family know how you’re feeling, don’t keep it bottled up inside like me.

Seeking professional help, such as therapy or counseling

What lifestyle choices can help reduce the risk of suicide? It’s kind of hard to find a good fit with a psychiatrist and therapist unless you’re lucky.

My first therapist was excellent. I stayed with her a long time.

The psychiatrist was another story. First one didn’t know what he was doing and the second one was downright mean. The third one only cared about money.

I have been through a lot of doctors and therapists and the sad thing now is that I don’t have any thanks to no insurance and inflation.

Staying physically active and engaging in regular exercise

I used to exercise all the time. It gave me a “good high.” Then, when I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, my body started breaking down on me.

I was helping my dad rake leaves and then bring them to the curb with a tarp. Although, I knew what might happen and it did. I have trouble bending my knees now.

Especially when I go down steps. But you, you have to exercise! It is essential for your well being. I know it’s even hard to think about it, but you’ve got to try!

Otherwise, you’ll be stuck in that negative mode forever feeling sorry for yourself.

Getting enough sleep and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule

I can’t stress how good sleep is so important speaking from a person with insomnia. I feel fatigued, have brain fog, and have “space out” sessions.

If you don’t get enough sleep, this could be you in a matter of days. Not getting good sleep, can lead to suicical thoughts.

Consistent sleep schedule is a must also. Your brain responds better to situations that pop up during the day, and you’re more relaxed. Now doesn’t that sound good?

Reducing stress through relaxation techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises

What lifestyle choices can help reduce the risk of suicide? I discovered meditation a few months back and it has changed my perspective about life.

Life can be enjoyable and not dismal and dreary all the time.

Also I do deep breathing exercise in with the meditation. I can’t even describe the transformation in me. Anxiety and depression are almost gone.

I could say I wish I discovered it years ago, but I’m glad I did discover it. Also, there are many other relaxation techniques that could help you.

Limiting alcohol and drug use

Alcohol is a depressant, so It’s something you might want to avoid. If you are suicidal, it will put you deeper into that state. Then you might do something you’ll regret.

Drug use is what it is. You may get a brief high, but you’ll come crashing down like a tornado destroying your house while you’re still inside (bad analogy).

Both are something to be avoided because it only enhances your suicidal thoughts. You think you’re escaping your problems, but you’re only adding to them.

silhouette photo of woman during dawn — Photo by Alexandro David on Pexels.com

Setting realistic goals and breaking them down into manageable steps

What lifestyle choices can help reduce the risk of suicide? Don’t set goals so high that you’ll never be able to reach them.

In the beginning, set minimalistic goals so you can achieve them.

I started by getting out of bed each morning instead of staying there all day. Then I would get ready for the day. I tried to stay out of bed as much as possible except for nightime sleep.

Low and behold, it starting working. A small piece of suicidal thinking was chipped away. I felt less burdened and weighted down.

Developing healthy coping strategies for dealing with difficult emotions

Difficult emotions are going to come bubbling up, but don’t try to suppress them. That will surely lead you on a suicidal path.

First thing I learned is you have to remain calm (no hysterics). Next, is you have to set boundries. Learn to say no and set limits to protect your emotional well-being.

Also practice self-compassion. Be kind to yourself and recognize that it’s okay to feel difficult emotions. You practice these, you’re on your way up the emotional ladder.

Staying connected with others and participating in social activities

What lifestyle choices can help reduce the risk of suicide? That’s one mistake I made, I alienated my friends, so I was left with none. I stopped doing social activities altogether.

I still don’t have any friends, but I’ve implemented other strategies to help me out of the hole I was in. Still, making friends is high on my list.

I’ve had social anxiety for awhile, but that is getting kicked in the but. I’m trying to participate in more social activities.

Reaching out for help when feeling overwhelmed or experiencing suicidal thoughts

If you’re having suicidal thoughts, please reach out to someone. There were so many times where I could have reached out to someone and I didn’t.

Let’s just say it ended badly with hospitalization. The last attempt was the last one for me because I lost everything.

I decided I wasn’t going to keep living my life like that anymore. So, please, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, connect with someone so it doesn’t go any further.

If on meds, take like clockwork

What lifestyle choices can help reduce the risk of suicide? If you’re already on meds and their working, take them religiously. Try not to skip them or forget to take them.

Also make sure you don’t run out like I have so many times and then go through withdrawals.

The withdrawal symptoms can be overwhelming, but you will come out ok on the other side. I speak from experience many times over.

What are protective factors suicide?

Protective factors for suicide are conditions or attributes that reduce the likelihood of suicidal behavior.

They can help individuals cope with stress and adversity.

Here are some key protective factors:

Strong Social Support: Having a network of supportive friends, family, or community members can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation.
Effective Coping Skills: The ability to manage stress and cope with difficult emotions can help individuals navigate challenging situations.
Mental Health Treatment: Access to mental health care and adherence to treatment can alleviate symptoms of mental health disorders.
Coping Strategies: Skills such as problem-solving, emotional regulation, and conflict resolution can help individuals manage crises more effectively.
Sense of Purpose: Having goals, aspirations, or a sense of meaning in life can motivate individuals to seek help and stay engaged with life.
Cultural or Religious Beliefs: Strong beliefs or values that discourage suicide can act as a protective factor.
Life Skills: Skills related to communication, assertiveness, and decision-making can empower individuals to handle life’s challenges.
Physical Health: Good physical health and access to healthcare can contribute to overall well-being.
Positive Relationships: Healthy relationships with peers and family can provide support and reduce feelings of loneliness.
Resilience: The ability to bounce back from adversity and adapt to stress can protect against suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

Promoting these protective factors within individuals and communities can help reduce the risk of suicide.

Sum It All Up

What lifestyle choices can help reduce the risk of suicide? So, life may feel overwhelming right now, but suicidal thinking isn’t the answer.

It never will be. It only led me down a path I wish I wouldn’t have taken (over and over).

You think I would have learned my lesson the first time, but I didn’t lose everything that mattered to me those times.

Having a good suport system is essential. Without that, it’s more difficult to get through the suicidal thinking. You get away from the “all or none” thinking.

The only support I had was through a therapist and that was only one hour every week. Don’t fall into the trap I did. Implement these strategies. Peace and always love, Until next time…