Suicidal depression is a severe mental health condition that is characterized by persistent sadness, hopelessness, and thoughts of ending one’s life. These feelings become overwhelming. It’s one of the most serious forms of depression, as well as a leading cause of preventable deaths, that affects millions of people each year, all over the world.

This form of depression is complex, heartbreaking, and more common than you might think. Understanding its causes is crucial for prevention, early intervention, and effective treatment. Suicidal depression arises from a variety of biological, psychological, and social factors. Let’s learn more about what causes suicidal depression.

Biological Factors

What’s happening in the brain is a big part of suicidal depression. Some people are genetically more likely to develop depression, especially if it runs in their family. Brain chemistry also can play a role. Imbalances in chemicals like serotonin and dopamine can make it harder to regulate one’s mood. Health problems, especially chronic pain or serious illnesses, can also affect mental health, sometimes leading to depression and suicidal thoughts.

Emotional and Psychological Factors

The way we think and feel about ourselves and the world around us can also contribute to depression. People who struggle with suicidal depression often battle unwanted and recurring negative thoughts, such as feeling worthless or believing things will never get better for them.

Past trauma, such as abuse or loss, can leave deep emotional wounds that often end up resurfacing later in life. Even personality traits like being overly self-critical or perfectionistic can make someone more vulnerable when life gets tough.

Environment and Life Circumstances

Life is full of challenges: discrimination, loneliness, financial struggles, relationship problems, and major life changes are just a few. Events like these can lead to depression and push someone over the edge when they’re already feeling low, especially if these negative thoughts and feelings are left untreated. Unfortunately, with a strong stigma around mental health, people often avoid getting the help they need and deserve, which can make things worse.

How to Help with Suicidal Depression

Helping someone with suicidal depression can be challenging, and professional help is often the best type of support. However, there are some simple steps you can take to be a better supporter.

Listen Without Judgment

Make sure you try to create an open and honest space for the person struggling to talk about how they’re feeling. Try to remain calm, avoid lecturing them, and show empathy. If you can make them feel heard and validated, it can make all the difference.

Be There for Them

For those struggling with depression, even simple and everyday tasks can feel overwhelming. Be there for them and offer practical support by making a meal for them, running errands for them, or helping them with chores around their house. Being there for them in these ways can show them how much you care.

Take Care of Yourself

Supporting someone who is struggling can be emotionally draining. It’s important to care for yourself, too. Make sure you’re checking in with yourself and reaching out to your own support system or therapist if you need additional support during this time.

Encourage Professional Help

One of the best things you can do for yourself or a loved one who is struggling with suicidal depression is to advocate for them to seek professional support. A trained mental health professional will be able to provide structured support and a safe environment for healing.

Help Is Available

It’s important to remember that suicidal depression isn’t caused by just one thing. It’s a mix of biological, emotional, psychological, and environmental factors. The treatment plan needs to be multilayered for it to address both the symptoms and any underlying causes.

Suicidal depression is an incredibly complex mental health disorder, but taking the time to better understand it can save lives. Contact our team to learn more about depression treatment options and how we can help.