If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, there is help. Call 988.
Mental health diagnoses such as depression, schizophrenia, PTSD, or other illnesses can lead to increased stress and suicidal thoughts. Many people want to escape their struggles and feelings of sadness and figure the only way to improve their state is to take their own life. Some suicide attempts fail, which can be hard for the patient and family to grapple with. Healing and dealing with suicidal thoughts after an attempt can bring out difficult emotions.
Emotions That Can Occur After An Attempt
Each suicide attempt patient will experience different emotions and move forward in living differently. No situation is the same, but there are some common emotions that multiple people experience.
Common symptoms that can occur after an attempt can include:
- Relief that the attempt failed
- Disappointment in still being around
- Shame
- Embarrassment
- Fatigue or emotional fatique
- Overwhelm
- Anger
While many will see a failed suicide attempt as a good thing, the person who attempted may feel disappointed or angry that they didn’t accomplish what they set out to do. Many suicidal people are emotionally drained and some have even sought help for their mental health for many years. These frustrations and coinciding emotions can become heightened after a suicide attempt.
Different Therapy That Is Available For Survivors
Seeking help after a suicide attempt may seem especially daunting. Opening up about your struggles and dealing with the shame can be difficult when working with a counselor. Suicide attempt survivors can benefit from finding a support group where they can hear from strangers who have experienced the same thing.
Seeking individual counseling can help break down your emotions, triggers, and what you can do to find joy in life again. Many suicidal people have experienced intense trauma or abuse, which can be digested and worked through with a licensed therapist. Therapy can help teach you coping skills and minimize triggers.
As the stigma around mental health continues to decrease, more therapy techniques and coping methods will also come to light. Developing therapy practices can be helpful for those who have sought counseling in the past and still struggle with suicidal thoughts. Seeking help from a therapist can be beneficial, but it is always a good idea to do some research before starting a new therapy practice.
Recovering After A Suicide Attempt
Multiple actions need to take place after a suicide attempt. Depending on if the patient is still a danger to themselves, they may be held in the hospital for multiple days. Even after being released from the hospital, creating a safe place and providing help is necessary for the patient.
One thing that can be helpful when combined with therapy, is mindfulness. Mindfulness practices can help you find the positive and help your brain to focus on these moments rather than anxiety or fearful moments.
Mental health concerns can lead to seeking numbing agents to help block out symptoms of depression. But after a suicide attempt, it is best to avoid drugs and alcohol as these can make your suicidal thoughts worse. Alcohol can cloud your judgment and critical thinking, this is dangerous when you are wanting to take your own life.
There is no pressure to tell friends and family about your attempt as soon as it happens. If these people are important to your care, then talking to them can help offer you emotional support. You should only talk about your attempt to others when you are ready.
Creating a suicide safety plan and recognizing what triggers you to have suicidal thoughts will help you avoid a future attempt. Your plan should include resources to help and people who are around to offer support through hard times. If you know what situations or people can make you feel suicidal, this can be helpful for you to limit these symptoms.
Therapy With Ogden Psychological Service
Ogden Psychological Services wants to help all patients have a better quality of life and avoid suicidal thoughts. Our therapists can help with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more. Mental health help is not something to be ashamed of and can help you live a long full life. If you are currently having suicidal thoughts, call 988 or 911 immediately. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.
