Your General Practitioner (GP)
Starting with your GP is a good initial step for seeking support.
You might feel apprehensive about discussing your suicidal feelings, but doctors are well-versed in addressing these sensitive topics.
Your GP can :
- Provide referrals to counselling or psychotherapy
- Prescribe medication
- Direct you to specialist services, like a community mental health team (CMHT)
Peer Support
Peer support groups bring together individuals who have had similar experiences to offer mutual support. This can be a comforting way to express your thoughts, feelings, and coping strategies with others who understand your situation.
This type of support can occur in person, in groups or one-on-one, or it can take place over the telephone or through text messages. Online peer support, such as via email, online support communities, or social media, can be an ideal option if you're not comfortable discussing your feelings in person.
Some popular ones include:
Talking Therapies
Talking therapies, which involve discussing your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours with a trained professional, help in understanding the root of your suicidal feelings and identifying methods to manage and overcome them.
While access to talking therapies on the NHS may have long waiting lists in your area, you may be able to access these services through charities, your workplace, or university, or privately at a reduced rate.
Some common ones include:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Focuses on changing negative thoughts and behaviours to improve emotional regulation and develop coping strategies.
- Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Addresses interpersonal issues, aiming to resolve relationship conflicts that contribute to emotional distress.
- Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT): A derivative of CBT that incorporates mindfulness and stress management techniques to enhance emotional and cognitive regulation.
Medication
Although no specific drug is licensed to treat suicidal feelings, your doctor might prescribe psychiatric medication to alleviate your symptoms or to manage a mental health issue causing your suicidal feelings.
Here are some commonly prescribed types of medication:
- Antidepressants: Such as SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) like sertraline or fluoxetine, used to treat depression and anxiety disorders.
- Mood Stabilisers: Such as lithium, which is often prescribed for bipolar disorder to help stabilise mood swings.
- Antipsychotics: Used in lower doses to enhance the effects of antidepressants or to manage symptoms of severe mental health disorders like schizophrenia.
If you find your condition worsening due to psychiatric medication, it is crucial to inform your GP immediately.
Crisis Services
Crisis services are readily accessible to offer help and support during a mental health crisis. These services include that can assist you during a mental health crisis outside of a hospital, crisis houses offering intensive, short-term support in a residential setting, and local support services offering a range of aid, from day services and drop-in sessions to counselling.
Explore Crisis Services
Self-care
Self-care techniques can also play a critical role in managing your feelings and mental well-being. This involves taking steps to look after your physical health, such as maintaining a balanced diet, getting regular physical activity, ensuring you get enough sleep, and avoiding or reducing your alcohol, caffeine, and sugar intake.
Moreover, it can involve taking care of your mental health by doing things that make you happy and help you relax, staying connected with people, and spending time in nature.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity, like yoga or walking, to boost mood and reduce anxiety.
- Mindfulness and Relaxation: Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or progressive muscle relaxation to manage stress and improve mental health.
- Healthy Routine: Establishing a consistent daily schedule including sufficient sleep, nutritious meals, and time for hobbies and social interactions.
Finding what works for you might take some time, but simple steps can make a significant difference.
Helplines and Listening Services
Helplines and listening services offer reliable avenues for acquiring information or assistance when required.
These services provide confidential and non-judgemental support, available at various times throughout the day.
They are especially helpful if you are finding it challenging to open up to people you know, or if you prefer not to converse face-to-face.
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