9. Recurrent Thoughts of Death.
Over 700 000 people die because of suicide every year. [8] It is quite common for a person with depression to have regular and recurrent thoughts of death and no fear of dying. They may think about suicide or make a specific plan to commit it. The CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) reports that over nine million adults in the USA have suicidal thoughts every year. Such thoughts are especially persistent in those aged 18 to 25 years. [9]
Be warned if you see the following signs in yourself or someone you know:
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- Focusing on death (constantly thinking and talking about death);
- Becoming withdrawn (avoiding close friends and family, losing interest in activities);
- Showing despair (talking about unbearable pain or being a burden on others);
- Having swings in mood or sleep (being sad or irritable, and then suddenly calm, sleeping more than usual);
- Excessive alcohol or drug intake;
- Engaging in highly risky activities (reckless behaviour). [10]
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