Recent research has revealed that nine out of ten people who committed suicide sent out a ‘signal’ informing the people around them of their condition. However, 81 percent of family members left behind did not see the warning signs, and were not able to help. (Image : Yonhap)
SEOUL, Jan.27 (Korea Bizwire) – Recent research has revealed that nine out of ten people who committed suicide sent out a ‘signal’ informing the people around them of their condition. However, 81 percent of family members left behind did not see the warning signs, and were not able to help.
Only one out of four got medical help within a month before committing suicide, and most of the time they visited other medical facilities claiming they had physical problems.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare announced the results of psychological autopsies conducted on the family members of suicide victims. In total, 151 family members participated in the study.
The results showed that 93.4 percent of those who committed suicide sent out a ‘message’ through words, actions and changes in emotions while they were alive. However, 81 percent of the family members did not seem to have noticed the message.
According to experts, those who commit suicide often show signs of their intentions through words, actions and emotions.
Verbal signs in which the person mentions death or suicide directly are the most common indicator. Phrases such as “be well when I’m not around” or “it would be an easier death if I had a gun” are common. Some write about death in letters or diaries.
Some yearn for life after death, or mention those who passed away. Claiming to have physical pain such as back pain also could be a sign.
Changes in sleeping patterns, appetite or weight could also be signs of suicide. Cleaning one’s surroundings and attempts to spend time with family members are also seen as signs.
Other than buying pesticides or briquettes, excessive drinking and smoking, substance abuse, losing interest in appearances, or over-relating to art or journalism related to suicide could be signs that an individual is close to committing suicide.
Vigilance should also be exercised when one stops going out and only stays at home, suddenly bursts into tears, and shows changes in cognitive functions such as lowered concentration or an increase in mistakes at work.
Officials from the Central Psychological Autopsy Center commented that ‘gatekeeper’ education programs that can help to prevent suicide and keep individuals aware of the signs of suicide should be expanded. They suggested that concerned individuals should call the mental health center (☎ 1577-0199) if someone around them appears to be at risk of committing suicide.
By Francine Jung (francine.jung@kobizmedia.co.kr)
