Grief Speaks
Signs of Suicide Contemplation and the Internet
  
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The following list gives indicators that an person may be contemplating suicide. Many of these clues or signs could easily be expressed in material posted online. The main points are material from SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). The italics show how this information may be reflected in online activity:
 
  • Threatening to hurt or kill oneself or talking about wanting to hurt or kill self.
  • Posting this kind of material online on a personal Web site or in a blog, or including these thoughts in electronic messages.
  •  Looking for ways to kill oneself by seeking access to firearms, pills or other means.
  • Searching for information on methods to commit suicide on Web sites or requesting information in online discussion groups.
  • Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide when these actions are out of the ordinary for the person.
  • Posting this kind of material online on a personal Web site, in a blog or including these thoughts in electronic messages.
  • Feeling hopeless.
  • Feeling rage or uncontrolled anger or seeking revenge.
  • Acting recklessly or engaging in risky activities- seemingly without thinking.
  • Feeling trapped-like there is no way out.
  • The preceding four feelings or activities could be reflected in online postings or communications.
  • Increasing use of alcohol or drugs
  • Withdrawal from friends, family and society.
  • Signs of Internet addiction could be implicated in possible suicide behavior.
  • Feeling anxious, agitated, or unable to sleep-or sleeping all the time.
  • Experiencing dramatic mood changes.
  • Seeing no reason for living or having no sense of purpose in life. 
  • The preceding three feelings could also be reflected in online postings or communications.

Ways in which there may be a connection between online activity and suicidal behavior. The person who is contemplating suicide may:
  • Express these thoughts and intention online.
  • Search for information on suicide methods online.
  • Communicate with others in an online forum who are also contemplating harmful or suicidal behavior and thus receive reinforcement for the idea that suicide is an appropriate answer, information on suicide methods, and encouragement. Communication with others may also result in arrangements for joint participation in suicide.
  • Communicate in an online forum with others who are contemplating violent actions against others, followed by suicide.
  • Form a relationship with a very sick, dangerous stranger who takes perverse pleasure in convincing people that suicide is the answer and providing assistance and encouragement for such action.
  • Respond to intense cyberbullying by resorting to suicide or be encouraged to commit suicide by other teens in the context of cyberbullying.
  • Consider that suicide is the answer to some other online situation that has led to feelings of helplessness and hopelessness, including involvement with an online sexual predator or online gambling.    (Cyberbullying and Cyberthreats, responding to the challenge of online social aggression, threats and distress by Nancy Willard, 2007)

Who is at risk for engaging in risky online behavior?
  • Youth who are at risk in general.
The following is a list of traits in boys and girls ages 10-17 who had formed close relationships with people they met on the Internet:
  • Girls who had high levels of conflict with parents 
  • Girls who were highly troubled
  • Boys who had low level communication with parents
  • Boys who were highly troubled 
Is it possible that these young people are looking for acceptance, caring, attention and love in the wrong place? These youth are more vulnerable to predators in general. 

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