WHO estimates that one in four people in the world will be affected by mental or neurological disorders at some point in their lives. Around 450 million people currently suffer from such conditions, placing mental disorders among the leading causes of ill-health and disability worldwide. Globally, the total number of people with depression was estimated to exceed 300 million in 2015, equivalent to 4.3 percent of the world’s population. Depression is ranked as the single largest contributor to global disability (7.5 percent of all years lived with disability in 2015). At its worst, depression can lead to suicide, over 800 000 people die due to suicide every year. Suicide is the second leading cause of death in 15 to 29-year-olds. National Suicide Prevention Week 2019 Date and Significance: 8 Facts About Suicide You Didn't Know. 

Suicide is a tragic reaction to stressful life situations. But it can be prevented. Whether you're considering suicide or know someone who feels suicidal, learn suicide warning signs and how to reach out for immediate help and professional treatment.

Signs of suicidal ideation can be evident in the language used by the person. Be it a friend, a family member, spouse or coworker, listening intently to the person's use of words and language can give you some clues. Identifying them and seeking timely intervention can help save a life. Here are some of the language signs of depression and suicide:

Threats of Killing Self

This is the most obvious sign of suicidal ideation. The person may explicitly talk about killing themselves or hint at it. If you see such signs, do not say anything provocative. At this stage, the person may already be at the brink.

Declaring They Want to be Left Alone

A person who is contemplating suicide may become aloof. People with suicidal tendencies may request friends and family to leave them alone. If they are turning reclusive and speak about being alone, it's a red flag.

Death Talks

Talking about death without explicitly implying suicide is a sign of mental distress. If the person has suicide on his or her mine, talks about death may become common.

Aggressive Language

It's common for people who are contemplating suicide to turn aggressive towards others. This aggression may be evident in the person's language.

Saying Thanks or Confessing

Someone who has planned to commit suicide may make last calls to their friends and family, expressing gratitude and thanks. They may even ask for forgiveness or confess to a wrong-doing.

Language is a mirror of the mind. It can inadvertently give away the intent of the person. If someone you know has been depressed lately, pay special attention to their choice of words.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 06, 2019 11:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).