Looking After Yourself
As previously identified, 20.6% of the UK population have experienced suicidal thoughts in their lifetime [1](McManus et al., 2016). These thoughts can be had by anyone.
Taking care of yourself is a priority.
If you ever experience suicidal thoughts, consider the following:
1. Take a step back
Slow down, pause and take a step back.
Become aware of what is happening to you. Look at the bigger picture. Go through the 5 Areas Model (as previously shown, this identifies a snapshot of the main linking factors in our mental health).
1. Take a step back
Slow down, pause and take a step back.
Become aware of what is happening to you. Look at the bigger picture. Go through the 5 Areas Model (as previously shown, this identifies a snapshot of the main linking factors in our mental health).
2. What are your protective factors
Assess any protective factors
Protective factors lessen the risk of an individual carrying out their suicidal thoughts.
Protective factors include:
1) The impact that ending your life will have on your family, friends and / or colleagues.
2) Faith / religious beliefs
3. Talk to someone
Talk to someone
Speak to someone who you trust. This will help to make more sense of these feelings in addition to enabling you to open up and make considered decisions.
