To End Suicide we Must Understand It

It's vital that we recognize that suicide is the result of a biochemical imbalance which impairs an individual's ability to make rational decisions.

A depression induced suicide is the result of ongoing mental health struggles that leave a person feeling incapable of ever getting better. A spontaneous suicide is the result of a sudden yet overwhelming belief that everything would be better if that person was no longer alive coupled with a lack of impulse control.

Regardless of whether it's a spontaneous suicide or a depression induced suicide, it is evident that the brain was not functioning in a healthy and stable manner.


All suicides involve a combination of three factors.

  1. Isolation

  2. Extreme Distress

  3. Loss of Hope

To prevent the perfect storm of these three factors taking shape at once, we believe we must focus on intentional living, authentic healing, and meaningful connections. In doing so, we will improve our ability to prevent moments of crisis and/or effectively navigate through them thus reducing the rate of suicide. 

Depression Induced

These suicidal thoughts can cause an individual to feel as though they have two brains. A rational brain that becomes harder and harder to hear and an irrational which constantly tells the individual that they are going to die and every way it could happen. These thoughts are intrusive and can leave the individual feeling isolated and terrified of them-self. 

No Will to Live

These suicidal thoughts can cause an individual to believe that they would rather die than feel the pain they're experiencing, and/or that others would be better off if they were dead. These thoughts are overwhelming and can leave the individual feeling unworthy and incapable. 

Suicidal Thoughts

How to Respond to Suicidal Thoughts 

As Craig A. Miller, author of This is How it Feels, has said, "Rather than fearing suicidal thoughts, I see them as a warning mechanism that is alerting me to the fact that something is wrong and help is needed."

Response Suggestions for Self-Care

  • Talk to someone about what you're feeling

  • Engage in a physical activity

  • Contact your practitioner 

  • Try to identify what may have triggered these feelings

  • Implement coping strategies that include mindfulness exercises

  • Learn about various modalities of healing to prevent future episodes

  • When possible avoid people and environments that cause you stress and anxiety

Response Suggestions when Caring for Others

  • Show compassion and a willingness to listen

  • Stay present and attentive to their body language, eyes, and speech

  • Encourage the person to engage with you in physical activities and/or mindfulness exercises

  • Focus the conversation on something they love, something that brings them comfort, and/or something that reminds them of why they want to live

  • Encourage them to learn about various modalities of healing to help prevent future episodes

  • Be an advocate, but avoid taking full responsibility for their wellness

  • Avoid statements that will cause them to feel guilt or shame

  • Avoid assuming that they are feeling suicidal at all times

If in crisis and there is concern of a suicide attempt, call for professional assistance and/or 911. 

Liability Disclaimer

GOOD is attempting to raise awareness and encourage exploration of wellness, but is not offering medical advice or crisis intervention strategies. Please speak with a medical professional of your choosing to discover the best method of healing for you.