Introduction
In a depression, the affected person is usually excessively depressed, depressed and joyless. Some people also feel a so-called “emptiness”. In the absence of a positive self-assessment, people with depression can also meet other people unlovingly.
A feeling of guilt or worthlessness can rob them of any hope. They appear tired and lacking in drive. Therefore, the rest of their lives often seem unbearable to them, so that they see suicide as a last resort. Aggression against other people who are not expressed can end up in self-aggression. Suicide is understood as the self-chosen intentional suicide.
What is the suicide risk in depression
Around 15% of the population suffers from depression requiring treatment at least once in their lives. That means every sixth to seventh person. Despite a more open and enlightened approach to the social recognition of mental illness, there is still a high number of undetected cases.
This is mainly because some people, full of shame, do not want to talk about their hopelessness and lack of prospects. Doctors also often escape an existing depression of their patients. Among many causes, one of the reasons for an increased risk of suicide is the existence of a mental illness, such as depression.
This alone results in about 10,000 suicides per year in Germany, according to figures from the Federal Statistical Office. A considerably higher number results from the mostly preceding suicide attempts. Presumably 5 to 100 suicide attempts can be assumed for a completed suicide.
If one compares the number of suicides with road deaths, it can be assumed that twice as many suicides occur in road accidents. It is one of the most frequent causes of death in Germany. Nevertheless, the number of suicides has been decreasing only very slowly since 1980, presumably due to better medical care following an attempt that has already been made.
How should the relatives deal with suicidal thoughts
Relatives play an important role in the care of a person with suicidal thoughts. They are often the first people to learn of any thoughts and are a first point of contact. In any case, every single suicidal thought and its announcement must be taken seriously.
Offering a conversation, which should be conducted as neutrally as possible on the part of the relative, can take away the first urge of the person concerned. In this conversation, the suicide should be talked about specifically. This can be done in an indirect way, e.g. by asking: “What do you mean that life is senseless?
Also a direct way is legitimate, in which one can ask: “Are you thinking of killing yourself?”. Appeasement or dismissal is dangerous and counterproductive. It should be remembered that the loved one can be part of the problem, in the eyes of the person concerned.
In any case, it is therefore important to consult a doctor, as suicidal thoughts are always a self-endangering intention. The trained physician can initiate further necessary measures and make an assessment of the severity of the current condition. Contact persons can be psychiatrists, but also any other doctor, such as the family doctor. In urgent cases, the rescue service can be called in.
