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Suicidal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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suicidal

[suːɪˈsaɪdəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

mental health

The term 'suicidal' refers to the state of having thoughts, plans, or impulses to end one's own life. It is often associated with feelings of extreme despair, hopelessness, and emotional pain. Individuals who are suicidal may feel detached from reality or believe that there is no way to escape their suffering. This condition is a major concern in the field of mental health, as it indicates a severe distress that requires immediate attention and intervention.

Synonyms

despondent, hopeless, self-destructive.

Examples of usage

  • She has been feeling suicidal lately.
  • He reached out for help when he felt suicidal.
  • Suicidal thoughts can be a symptom of depression.
  • It is crucial to take suicidal feelings seriously.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Many people who have suicidal thoughts might not actually want to end their life, but are expressing emotional pain and seeking relief.
  • Research shows that discussing feelings and mental health can prevent suicide, emphasizing the importance of talking about emotions.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment that helps individuals change negative thought patterns and reduce suicidal feelings.

Statistics

  • Globally, suicide is one of the leading causes of death, particularly among young adults and teenagers.
  • In some regions, the suicide rate has increased significantly over the past decade, indicating a growing mental health crisis.
  • Access to mental health resources and support systems has been shown to reduce the likelihood of suicidal thoughts and actions.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures handle discussions about suicide uniquely; some may view it as dishonorable, while others are more open to discussing mental health.
  • In Japan, the phenomenon of 'karoshi,' or death from overwork, often leads to discussions around suicide and work-life balance.
  • Stories of celebrities who have died by suicide have raised awareness, leading to discussions about mental health in various media platforms.

Literature

  • Many authors use themes of despair and suicidal thoughts in their works to explore human emotions and struggles.
  • Iconic works like 'The Bell Jar' by Sylvia Plath delve into the psyche of individuals dealing with mental health, providing empathy and understanding.
  • Poets such as John Keats and Edgar Allan Poe have included dark themes of death and despair in their poetry, reflecting the struggle with life's ephemeral nature.

Prevention

  • Support groups and helplines have been established globally to provide immediate assistance to those experiencing suicidal thoughts.
  • Education about mental health in schools has been recognized as a crucial step in prevention, helping young people to recognize warning signs in themselves and others.
  • Public awareness campaigns seek to reduce stigma, encouraging individuals to seek help and talk about their feelings openly.

Origin of 'suicidal'

The word 'suicidal' originates from the Latin word 'suicidium', which is a combination of 'sui' meaning 'of oneself' and 'caedere' which means 'to kill'. The term began to be used in the English language in the late 17th century, evolving to describe individuals who contemplating self-harm or self-inflicted death. Over the years, 'suicidal' has acquired a more clinical connotation, particularly within the realms of psychology and psychiatry. It reflects a condition that is taken very seriously in mental health discussions and interventions.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,044, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.