Suicide is a serious global public health issue, yet it is shrouded in a reluctance to have meaningful and productive discussions about it. That silence can lead to shame – even though mental health issues and suicide affect people of all ages, backgrounds, and circumstances. Suicide is one of the leading causes of death for most age groups. Often people consider suicide because they see it as the only way to solve problems and end unbearable pain, not because they really want to die.

Whether it’s youth struggling with identity and bullying, veterans coping with PTSD, adults facing financial or personal crises, or seniors dealing with isolation and health concerns, preventing suicide requires awareness, compassion, and access to resources.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Feelings of helplessness and a low sense of self-worth can be rooted in treatable mental health problems such as depression or other undiagnosed disorders. When those feelings escalate, it could lead to active suicide planning, so it’s important that family and loved ones recognize warning signs that could point to serious thoughts of suicide. These signs may include:

• Retreating from loved ones and activities after a recent trauma, such as a breakup, divorce, job loss, or death of a loved one.
• Talking about feeling hopeless, trapped, or being a burden.
• Withdrawing from social activities and loved ones.
• Noticing sudden mood changes, increased substance use, or reckless behavior.
• Giving away possessions or making final arrangements.

If someone you know is exhibiting these signs, it’s crucial to reach out and offer support. It may be helpful to reach out to other trusted friends, a spiritual advisor, or mental health professional to guide you and point you to additional resources. Transocean employees and their eligible dependents can utilize the Optum Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for no-cost expert counseling and other crisis support (access code: RIG).  

Awareness and Prevention Strategies

One of the biggest challenges in suicide prevention is the stigma surrounding mental health, and recognizing our own feelings of discomfort if loved ones talk openly about their struggles, their contemplations of suicide, or if they have survived a suicide attempt. By fostering open conversations and encouraging people to seek help, we can create a culture where mental health is prioritized just like physical health.

1. Facilitate Open Conversations – Encourage honest discussions without judgment. Listening can be a powerful tool in preventing suicide. Two great resources to learn how to start a conversation about mental health are Seize the Awkward and through Optum.
2. Harness Community Support – Family, friends, and professional counselors can provide vital emotional support.
3. Watch for Substance Abuse – Look for signs of substance use and abuse in loved ones which can magnify mental health issues and feelings of hopelessness.
4. Intervene – If your loved one is already seeking treatment, be sure to have that contact information handy. If they are in immediate danger, do not leave them alone. Contact 911 emergency services or a crisis helpline such as the 988 Lifeline.

Additional Resources for Help

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) - https://www.nami.org. 800-950-6264, or text helpline to 62640. You can also chat online.
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Dial, chat, or text 988 for confidential, 24/7 support in the U.S.
• Veterans Crisis Line – Dial 988, then press 1 for veteran-specific support. You can also chat online by visiting https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/.
• The Trevor Project – https://www.thetrevorproject.org/. A resource for LGBTQ+ youth in crisis.
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) – contains a wide range of resources and behavioral health support for all ages, https://www.samhsa.gov/.

Hope is possible through help. If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t wait.