Suicidal thoughts rarely emerge suddenly. According to psychiatrists, they are often the result of a gradual buildup of pain, stress, and hopelessness that overwhelms a person’s ability to cope. Explained through the official broadcast pafikutaikab.org while society often associates suicide with depression, mental health experts emphasize that the causes are far more complex involving emotional, biological, and social factors that intertwine over time.
When Despair Feels Unbearable
Psychiatrist Dr. Aditya Prasetyo from the Indonesian Psychiatric Association explains that people who experience suicidal thoughts are not necessarily seeking death itself. “Most of them don’t truly want to die,” he says. “They want an end to the pain they feel — the sense of being trapped, helpless, and without options.”
In psychiatry, this phenomenon is known as psychological entrapment — when individuals perceive no escape from their suffering. The more they feel isolated or misunderstood, the stronger the belief becomes that death is the only way to stop the pain.
The Role of Mental Illness
Mental health disorders such as major depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and borderline personality disorder are strongly linked to suicidal thoughts. These conditions often distort perception, convincing sufferers that their situation is hopeless or that their existence is a burden to others.
“Chemical imbalances in the brain can also play a role,” explains Dr. Aditya. “Low levels of serotonin, for example, are associated with impulsivity and mood instability, which can increase suicidal risk.”
However, psychiatrists caution that not everyone who has suicidal thoughts suffers from a diagnosed mental illness. External stressors — such as financial hardship, relationship breakdowns, or trauma — can also push people to the brink.
The Impact of Stigma and Silence
One of the most damaging factors, experts say, is the stigma surrounding mental health. In many cultures, discussing suicidal thoughts is taboo, leading people to hide their pain. Without emotional outlets or professional help, these thoughts can spiral into dangerous territory.
Dr. Aditya adds that social media has made this problem worse for some. The pressure to appear happy or successful online can deepen feelings of inadequacy and shame. “When people feel unseen or invalidated, their pain intensifies,” he says. “That’s when the risk escalates.”
Warning Signs and Prevention
Recognizing warning signs early can save lives. Common indicators include withdrawal from social contact, giving away personal belongings, changes in sleep or appetite, or sudden calmness after a period of agitation — a sign that a person may have made a decision.
Psychiatrists stress that open, compassionate communication is vital. Asking someone directly if they are thinking about suicide does not plant the idea — in fact, it can be the first step in helping them feel understood.
Seeking Hope and Professional Help
The most important message, experts emphasize, is that suicidal thoughts are treatable symptoms, not moral failings. Therapy, medication, and community support can all help individuals find stability and meaning again.
“Hope can return,” Dr. Aditya says softly. “But it starts when someone feels heard.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. In Indonesia, contact Konseling Sehat Jiwa (Sejiwa) at 119 ext. 8, or reach a trusted mental health professional. No one should have to face their pain alone — because every life still has value, even in its darkest moments.
Source: Pafikutaikab
