Having suicidal thoughts is a common symptom of depression; nevertheless, it isn’t necessary to know that not every thought needs to be converted into reality.
This blog will focus on how to fight such thoughts and what coping strategies can be practiced to get rid of such thoughts.
Let’s get straight into it!
Suicidal Thoughts: 7 Coping Strategies
Suicidal thoughts may indicate that you need help, so you should seek it right away. Therefore, get checked to the nearest emergency room or call a suicidal hotline in your country.
However, if there isn’t an emergency, you can practice the following 10 strategies to ensure these thoughts get out of your mind.
1. Speak Your Heart Out
Sometimes, loneliness or isolation can trigger suicidal thoughts. Holding your feelings inside you and thinking that no one will ever understand what you’re going through will only make them bigger inside you.
To that end, talking to someone can be the best therapy anyone could need. Sharing your thoughts will make you feel better and give you support. If you do not have anyone to speak to, visit your nearest medical center to seek help.
2. Look for Distraction
Think of the things you enjoy the most and would like to do in your free time. Such things can provide you with distraction and can be a relief from suicidal thoughts.
Some ideas that can help you to distract yourself include watching old pictures of your loved ones or some memorable moments or soothing objects like scented lotion.
Moreover, you can also make a playlist of your favorite songs, a book of puzzles, listen to or read motivational quotes, and remind yourself of the insights learned from the therapy.
3. Make Future Plans
What are your plans that excite you the most? It can be your dream vacation place, an adventure you always want to attempt, or planning to visit your long-distance friend.
Think of anything you always wanted to do, write it on paper, and place it where you can see it more often. It’ll help you to stay motivated and goal-oriented.
4. 5-4-3-2-1 Exercise
This might sound funny, but it is a beneficial exercise that can help you eliminate negative thoughts. To do so, follow these steps:
- Say loudly ‘5’ things you can see. Now, look at them and observe them closely.
- Touch ‘4’ things that you can find near you. Feel their texture and sensation.
- Say out loud about ‘3’ things you can hear and listen to them. Observe their sounds.
- Identify ‘2’ things you can smell and spend a few moments with them.
- Lastly, bring your awareness to ‘1’ thing that you can taste, regardless if it is subtle.
5. Watch Entertaining Movies
When you have depressing or demotivating thoughts, switching to something with the opposite emotions eventually helps to switch the mood.
To that end, if you’re not feeling good about yourself, watch funny video clips, movies, or even reels; you’ll notice a switch in your mood. Try to engage yourself with such videos and try to laugh; it will lift your mood and improve your mental health.
6. Make a Gratitude List
What are the things in your life that you are thankful for? Take some moments and think about such things.
Now make a list and appreciate the presence of those things in your life. You can continue to edit this list for days, months, or even years.
And whenever you face hard days, go back to your list and reread it to be thankful and feel motivated.
Confused about what to write about?
Think about the little things you have in life, even if it is a warm cup of coffee at your table, maybe a pretty plant or sunshine entering your window. Think of anything and write it down immediately.
7. Make a Feeling Journal
Keep in mind that the feelings and emotions you are having at the moment are temporary. This might not be your “good” time, but this time and moment, too, shall pass. You have to be strong and face them.
Make a journal stating your feelings and what you are going through to get them out of your head. This will help you to create a distance from pain and yourself.
Final Thoughts
Having suicidal thoughts suggests emotional instability, but seeking help is a safe and essential step towards healing. Talking to someone you trust is always better than getting those feelings out of your head.
However, if you are still confused about your mental health and suffering from severe depression, creating a safety plan with your support network could be life-saving. Discuss your problems and save yourself from any unfortunate event.
