Psychologists Call One Way To Prevent Suicide, That Is Frequent Stories With Closest People

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JAKARTA - Forensic clinical psychologist who graduated from the University of Indonesia A. Kasandra Putranto S.Psi, said that the emotional support of the closest people by inviting them to talk or tell stories about the problems faced is very important in helping to release the emotional burden of people who want to commit suicide.

"They may be able to provide a new perspective, valuable advice, or even help find a common solution," Kasandra said as quoted by ANTARA.

Kasandra said that suicide occurs when a person experiences the inability to socially connect with other people (isolated) and the inability to cope with a living situation that causes excessive emotional burden.

According to J.S House's theory, K. R Landis, & D Umberson's mention, listening and talking to someone believed could help relieve stress and provide a new perspective.

In addition, maintaining open communication in the family also helps family members feel comfortable sharing their feelings and difficulties. Kasandra explained in a 2017 study conducted by Holt-Lunstad that open communication in the family can improve emotional well-being and reduce the risk of depression.

In addition, the psychologist who opened Kasandra & Associates' personal practice said it was important to prioritize oneself and maintain mental health is an important thing that can be done by doing fun activities.

Self-educating about depression or other mental health problems can also help families understand these conditions and provide better support, Kasandra said.

Regarding the recent number of suicide cases in Indonesia, he said the influence of the environmental situation of society, culture, and psychological profiles is closely related to a person's decision to commit suicide. The source of pressure and the ability to deal with it, will determine the extent to which individuals will respond stressfully.

The negative perception of self, shame, a slumped situation, feeling failed, feeling unable to manage finances, despair, or feeling condemned by the people around them and the stigma of society being a psychological condition that factors people committing suicide.

"They believe that suicide is the only way to end suffering and take away the burden they feel," Kasandra said.

Another factor is the presence of depression, anxiety, stress, persistent anxiety, loss of hope, depression, and deep feelings of despair. Financial problems are also another common factor that causes a person to want to end life. Protracted financial burdens can cause feelings of despair, loss of hope, and serious mental disorders, such as depression and anxiety.

"Or related to certain missions that you want to fight for to give terror to others, in the context of romance, economy and socio-political society," Kasandra added.

Therefore, Kasandra reminded the need to increase awareness and sensitivity to family members and the surrounding community, to change behavior in those around them. Recognizing a person's changes is expected to help them to refrain from involving professionals for medical and psychological treatment.