Schizophrenia Suicide: Understanding the Signs & Support

Schizophrenia is a mental illness that influences the way an individual thinks, acts, and feels. Unfortunately, the high risk of suicide is among the most serious issues of this condition. Knowledge of the relationship between schizophrenia and suicide may guide relatives, caretakers, and loved ones to provide timely support and motivate those struggling with this condition.

Schizophrenia and Suicide: A High-Risk Reality

One of the causes of premature death in people with schizophrenia is suicide. Research indicates that the schizophrenia suicide rate is much higher compared to that of the general population. An estimate has shown that as little as 5 percent of people with schizophrenia died by suicide, and approximately 20-40 percent of these individuals attempt suicide in their lifetime.

Some factors that influence this high level of risk include the following.

1. Social isolation
2. Unemployment or loss of purpose
3. History of suicidal ideation or suicide attempts
4. Co-occurring substance abuse
5. Recent hospitalization or relapse
6. Mood disorders, including bipolar disorder
7. Personality disorders like borderline personality disorder BPD

It should be mentioned that these people are not committing suicide out of weakness or selfishness, but because of their mental illness. It can skew their judgment and make emotional pain much greater than a normal person experiences.

Understanding the Warning Signs

Those who are close to a person with suicidal thoughts and ideas due to schizophrenia can support them by recognizing such symptoms. These warning signs include the following.

1. Talking as if hopeless or like a burden
2. Verbalizing that they want to die
3. Withdrawing from social activities or isolating themselves
4. Selling personal property
5. Displaying a sudden calmness after severe distress
6. Increase in substance abuse or impulsive behaviors

When a family member or friend exhibits the following, take it seriously. Get help from a mental health professional right away.

End the Emotional Pain. Get Your Life Back.

Feeling Depressed, Anxious or Struggling with Mental Health Illness? Get Safe Comfortable Mental Health Dual Diagnosis High-Quality Therapy From Counselors That Care. Begin Your Recovery Now.

Hotline: (509) 348-4077

Other Disorders with Elevated Suicide Risk

Schizophrenia is not the only disorder with suicide risk. Psychiatric issues such as bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder are also linked with high rates of suicidal ideation and attempts.

There is a strong relationship between bipolar and suicide, where research reveals that 15% or above of all individuals who have bipolar disorder succumb to suicide. Similarly, the borderline personality disorder suicide rate is no less dangerous because of the loss of emotional control, impulsiveness, and fear of abandonment.

Risk and Protective Factors

Although risk factors are not always predictive when it comes to suicide, they make it possible to single out those who require emergent help. Risk factors affecting suicide occurrence in people affected by schizophrenia and related disorders are common. These include the following.

1. Psychiatric disorder diagnosis
2. Family history of suicide
3. History of suicide attempts
4. Lack of access to health care
5. Stigma or untreated symptoms
6. Co-occurring substance abuse

At the same time, there are certain protective factors that could result in a decrease in suicide.

1. Good relationships with the family members or friends
2. Evidence-based treatment
3. Frequent therapy or groups
4. Stable housing and employment
5. Engaging in hobbies or meaningful activities
6. Spiritual or religious support

Practical Steps to Help Someone Struggling

If your loved one has schizophrenia or another psychiatric issue, you can do the following simple yet thoughtful steps.

1. Start the Conversation

Let them know you are there and they are important to you. Such phrases as:

1. “I’m here for you.”
2. “You don’t have to go through this alone.”
3. “I do not know it all, but I want to help.”

2. Encourage Professional Support

Assist them in making the appointments and offer to accompany them. Effective treatment is comprised of therapy, medication, and evidence-based treatment plans, which can be a tremendous help in controlling symptoms and reducing high-risk behavior.

Collaborate with the individual and their therapist to create a safety plan, which should include the following.

1. Who to contact in a crisis
2. What calming activities help
3. Which environments should be avoided
4. Medication reminders or routines

4. Reduce Access to Harm

When a person is at a high risk, it is imperative to make sure that the of all dangerous things that a person can use (e.g., firearms, medications, and sharp tools) are locked in a particular place.

5. Be Patient and Stay Present

Progress doesn’t happen overnight. Celebrate small victories and remind them of their strength. Having constant emotional support from a close family member or friend can become one of the strongest protective elements.

We Level Up Washington: Support for Schizophrenia and Suicide Prevention

When you or a loved one begins exhibiting symptoms of schizophrenia or suicidal thoughts, please understand that there is assistance and treatment to help you or your loved one. There is a solution, and our specialized staff is ready to provide scientifically proven treatment to people with schizophrenia, risk factors for suicide, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder BPD, and other mental illnesses at We Level Up Washington.

We believe in healing the whole person, rather than just treating the symptoms. Whether you need a way out of a crisis or a long-term solution to your recovery, we are here to help you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

You Are Not Alone

Suicidal ideation or choosing to end your life amid the presence of schizophrenia is hard to face, yet relief and recovery are possible. Whether you have a mental illness or a family member has one, the first step leads to a change in everything.

You should not wait when you or people you care about are in crisis. To become familiar with the range of treatment options and initiate the recovery process, get in touch with We Level Up Washington today.

Summary

Call today to speak with our team and learn more about our programs. We Level Up Washington: (509) 348-4077. Your next step starts here.