Can a person at risk of suicide also show contradictory signs of relief or calmness?

A person at risk of suicide can indeed exhibit contradictory signs of relief or calmness, and this understanding is crucial in the context of suicide prevention. When individuals who are experiencing severe emotional distress contemplate suicide, they might go through a period where they feel a sense of relief or calmness following a decision to end their suffering, even if that decision is to take their own life.

This apparent relief can be misleading. It may suggest to others that their emotional pain has decreased when, in reality, it can signify that they have made a grave decision and may feel a sense of resolution about it. Such signs can be misinterpreted as improvement in their mental state, leading to a false sense of security among caregivers and loved ones.

Understanding this aspect is vital for Direct Support Professionals, as it emphasizes the need for ongoing evaluation and support for individuals who may appear calm or relieved yet are still at risk. Hence, recognizing the complexity of a person's emotional state is essential in providing effective support and intervention.